Bopyridae

/bɒˈpɪrɪdeɪ/ noun

Definition

A family of small parasitic crustaceans that live inside other crustaceans, particularly shrimp and crabs, and often dramatically affect their host's reproduction and appearance.

Etymology

From New Latin scientific nomenclature, derived from Greek roots; the '-idae' suffix is used in zoological classification to denote a family of organisms.

Kelly Says

Bopyridae represents one of the most extreme examples of parasitism in the animal kingdom—some species cause their female hosts to develop false abdomens and become permanent egg-carriers for the parasite's young, essentially turning them into living nurseries.

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