Hyperiidae

Dana, 1852

Genus Guides

1

Hyperiidae is a of amphipod crustaceans established by Dana in 1852. Members of this family are exclusively marine and are characterized by their obligate associations with gelatinous zooplankton, including jellyfish (Scyphozoa) and ctenophores. The family contains eight recognized : Euthemisto, Hyperia, Hyperiella, Hyperoche, Laxohyperia, Parathemisto, Pegohyperia, and Themisto. These amphipods are frequently documented as or associates of their gelatinous in pelagic marine environments.

Hyperiidae by (c) Георгий Виноградов (Georgy Vinogradov), some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Георгий Виноградов (Georgy Vinogradov). Used under a CC-BY license.Hyperiidae by (c) alicia penney, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by alicia penney. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyperiidae: //haɪˈpɪriˌaɪdiː//

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Habitat

Marine; pelagic zone. Associated with gelatinous zooplankton including jellyfish and ctenophores.

Distribution

Marine waters of the North Atlantic (Denmark, Norway, Sweden documented); southwestern Atlantic Ocean; Pacific Ocean (associated with Chrysaora fuscescens).

Host Associations

  • Chrysaora fuscescens - Pacific sea nettle; documented in aquarium and natural settings
  • Mnemiopsis mccradyi - associatectenophore; first record from southwestern Atlantic
  • jellyfish species - multiple unspecified documented

Behavior

Obligate association with gelatinous zooplankton . Parasitic lifestyle documented on jellyfish; exact nature of association ( vs. commensalism) varies by and context.

Ecological Role

of gelatinous zooplankton. Role in marine pelagic not fully characterized.

Human Relevance

Documented as pests in aquarium systems housing jellyfish, requiring pharmaceutical intervention (milbemycin oxime) or physical methods for management in captivity.

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Sources and further reading