Ostracods

Phylum Arthropoda

Sub Phylum Crustacea

Class Ostracoda

Also known as seed shrimps. They can be found in both seawater and, more commonly, in fresh water lakes and ponds. Dark grey/black in colour, the ostracod has a bivalved hinged almost opaque carapace, and measures approximately 1mm in diameter. The other principal physical features of the ostracod are the pair of antennae and two pairs of thoracic legs. These appendages assist in swimming and as sensory organs.

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