Copepods

/ˈkoʊ.pə.pɒdz/ noun

Definition

Tiny crustaceans that live in water and are among the most abundant animals on Earth, forming a crucial part of ocean food chains.

Etymology

From Greek 'kope' (oar) + 'podos' (foot), named for their paddle-like swimming legs. The term was coined in the early 1800s to describe these microscopic creatures.

Kelly Says

Copepods are so abundant that they likely outnumber all other animals on the planet combined—there are more copepods in the ocean than stars visible in the night sky! They're the primary food source for many fish and whales.

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