Crustaceans: Overview and Key Concepts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the study of crustaceans and their role within the animal kingdom.

Metamorphosis

A biological process of transformation from larva to adult, significantly altering morphology and function.

Biramous appendages

Limbs that are branched into two parts, typical in many crustaceans.

Ecdysis

The process of molting or shedding the exoskeleton in arthropods, allowing for growth.

Nauplius

A larval stage in the life cycle of many crustaceans, characterized by a simple body plan.

Open circulatory system

A type of circulatory system where hemolymph is pumped into body cavities and around tissues, as seen in crustaceans.

Ostracoda

A class of crustaceans commonly known as seed shrimp, recognized for their bivalve-like shells.

Herbivores

Organisms that primarily consume plant material; some crustaceans fit this category by feeding on algae.

Planktonic

Organisms that drift or float in aquatic environments, a category that includes many crustacean larvae.

Maxillipeds

Modified appendages in crustaceans used primarily for feeding.

Isopods

A group of crustaceans that includes pill bugs, some of which have adapted to terrestrial life.

Carapace

A hard, shield-like covering that protects the thorax and gills of many crustaceans.

Krill

Small, shrimp-like crustaceans that are essential in marine food webs, serving as a significant food source for larger animals.

Crustacea

A subphylum of arthropods that includes familiar animals such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.

Pancrustacea

A clade that includes both crustaceans and insects, highlighting their close evolutionary relationship.

Decapods

Crustaceans characterized by having 10 walking legs (5 pairs), which includes animals like shrimp and crabs.

Metamorphosis

A biological process of transformation from larva to adult, significantly altering morphology and function.

Biramous appendages

Limbs that are branched into two parts, typical in many crustaceans.

Ecdysis

The process of molting or shedding the exoskeleton in arthropods, allowing for growth.

Nauplius

A larval stage in the life cycle of many crustaceans, characterized by a simple body plan.

Open circulatory system

A type of circulatory system where hemolymph is pumped into body cavities and around tissues, as seen in crustaceans.

Ostracoda

A class of crustaceans commonly known as seed shrimp, recognized for their bivalve-like shells.

Herbivores

Organisms that primarily consume plant material; some crustaceans fit this category by feeding on algae.

Planktonic

Organisms that drift or float in aquatic environments, a category that includes many crustacean larvae.

Maxillipeds

Modified appendages in crustaceans used primarily for feeding.

Isopods

A group of crustaceans that includes pill bugs, some of which have adapted to terrestrial life.

Carapace

A hard, shield-like covering that protects the thorax and gills of many crustaceans.

Krill

Small, shrimp-like crustaceans that are essential in marine food webs, serving as a significant food source for larger animals.

Amphipods

Crustaceans with a laterally compressed body, often including sand hoppers and scuds.

Copepods

Small, often planktonic crustaceans that are vital primary consumers and food sources in aquatic ecosystems.

Barnacles (Cirripedia)

Sessile crustaceans that are typically enclosed in calcareous plates and attach to submerged surfaces.

Chelipeds

The first pair of walking legs in many decapods, modified into large pincers or claws for defense and feeding.

Gills

Respiratory organs found in most aquatic crustaceans, typically located under the carapace, for gas exchange.