Talitrid
Guides
Orchestia grillus
beach hopper, saltmarsh amphipod
Orchestia grillus is a saltmarsh amphipod in the family Talitridae, found in South America. It is notable for its role in studies of parasite-manipulated behavior, specifically involving infection by the trematode Levinseniella byrdi. Infected individuals display bright orange coloration and altered habitat use compared to uninfected individuals. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Speziorchestia grillus in some taxonomic databases.
Uhlorchestia
beach hoppers
Uhlorchestia is a genus of talitrid amphipods endemic to salt marshes along the Atlantic coast of North America. The genus contains two described species: U. spartinophila and U. uhleri. These amphipods are closely associated with smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and function as detritivores in salt marsh ecosystems. Population studies indicate high turnover rates and year-round reproduction with seasonal peaks.