Microcerberidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Microcerberidea: /ˌmaɪkroʊsərˈbɛrɪdiə/

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Summary

Microcerberidea is a suborder of isopod crustaceans with approximately 50 species worldwide, characterized by their small size and worm-like form. They inhabit diverse environments, including freshwater and marine ecosystems, and some species have been found in unique cave habitats.

Physical Characteristics

Less than 2 mm (0.079 in) long, worm-like appearance, interstitial habitat

Identification Tips

Resembles Anthuroideans (Cymothoidea) but lacks unique uropod morphology

Habitat

Interstitial environments, both marine and freshwater, including caves and hyporheic zones

Distribution

Known from caves in Bermuda and Hispaniola; marine species in Florida and along the Pacific Coast of the US; freshwater species from the Carolinas to central Texas

Ecosystem Role

Part of the interstitial ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity of marine and freshwater environments

Evolution

Incredibly ancient lineage, with one genus predating the opening of the Atlantic Ocean by over 100 million years; exhibits evolutionary stasis with nearly identical species for millions of years

Similar Taxa

• Cymothoidea
• Anthuroideans

Tags

• Microcerberidea
• Isopoda
• Crustacea
• Ancient Lineage
• Aquatic Invertebrates