Code OJ999999

The Copepoda pass through a fixed number of larval stages (11-12). The later stages are increasingly adult-like and specimens may be identifiable to family or superfamily level. The 5-6 earlier stages have a different form called the nauplius larva, in which the copepod is small, round, and often mite-like, with an undifferentiated or poorly differentiated body. The single, median eye typical of Copepoda (nauplius eye) is present as are three pairs of biramous leg-like appendages. The long antennules of adult copepods are not developed in this life stage.

References:

Shiel, R.J. (1995) A Guide to Identification of Rotifers, Cladocerans and Copepods from Australian Inland Waters. Co-operative Research Centre for Freshwater Ecology Identification Guide No. 3., Albury, NSW.

Williams, W.D. (1980) Australian Freshwater Life: The Invertebrates of Australian Inland Waters.The Macmillan Company of Australia, Melbourne.

Hawking, J. H., and F. J. Smith. 1998. Colour Guide to Invertebrates of Australian Inland Waters. Identification Guide no. 8. CRC for Freshwater Ecology, Albury.