Beach Hoppers

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Talitridae: /tæˈlaɪtrɪdiː/

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Summary

Talitridae is a family of amphipods known as beach hoppers or sand fleas, living in coastal habitats and capable of surviving for long periods out of water, with some species being entirely terrestrial.

Physical Characteristics

Males have a large second gnathopod.

Identification Tips

Misleadingly named sand fleas, these are actually sand hoppers and land hoppers. They can be identified by their ability to hop and their habitat preferences near the high water mark.

Habitat

Near or above the high water mark, often found in burrows in the sand or under seaweed washed ashore.

Distribution

Found in marine and terrestrial environments, particularly in coastal areas; some species are entirely terrestrial.

Diet

Detritivorous; they search for detritus at night.

Ecosystem Role

Important decomposers in coastal ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling by breaking down organic material.

Health Concerns

They do not bite people and are not true fleas.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection
• Trapping methods

Preservation Methods

• Alcohol preservation
• Freezing

Similar Taxa

• Siphonaptera (true fleas)
• Other amphipods

Misconceptions

Often called sand fleas, but they are not true fleas and do not bite.

Tags

• amphipods
• crustaceans
• Talitridae
• beach hoppers
• sand fleas