Idotea urotoma
Stimpson, 1864
blunt-tailed isopod
Idotea urotoma, the blunt-tailed isopod, is a marine isopod inhabiting low intertidal and shallow subtidal zones along the northeastern Pacific coast. It exhibits color that matches its algal or seagrass substrate, providing . The species is distinguished by a broadly triangular margin lacking a distinct projection.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Idotea urotoma: /ˌaɪ.doʊˈtiː.ə juːˈroʊ.toʊ.mə/
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Identification
The blunt-tailed isopod is reliably distinguished from other Idotea by its : the margin is broadly triangular with converging sides and no distinct projection. Additionally, I. urotoma shares with I. rufescens and I. ochotensis the diagnostic trait of a four-articled maxilliped , whereas most Idotea species possess five articles.
Images
Habitat
Low intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. Found on seaweed and seagrass substrates.
Distribution
Northeastern Pacific: Puget Sound, Washington (USA) to Baja California (Mexico).
Life Cycle
Gonochoric (separate sexes). Mating has been observed to occur before and sometimes during molting.
Similar Taxa
- Idotea rufescensShares the four-articled maxilliped trait, but differs in and geographic distribution
- Idotea ochotensisShares the four-articled maxilliped trait, but differs in and geographic distribution
- Other Idotea speciesMost possess five-articled maxilliped and distinct projection on
More Details
Color polymorphism
Coloration is substrate-dependent, ranging from yellowish gold to reddish to black, providing against seaweed and seagrass.