Entomostraca

/ˌɛntəmoʊˈstreɪkə/ noun

Definition

A group of small crustaceans including copepods and ostracods that are abundant in water.

Etymology

From Greek 'entomon' (insect) and 'ostrakon' (shell). Named in the 19th century because early naturalists thought these tiny creatures resembled insects with hard shells.

Kelly Says

Entomostracan copepods are the most abundant animals on Earth by individual count—there are more of them than people, and they're the base of most ocean food chains.

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