Definition

Noun: A small, parasitic crustacean of the subclass Copepoda that attaches to and feeds on the skin, gills, or fins of fish.

Usage

The term "fish louse" is a common name used to describe specific parasitic copepods. It is typically used in biological, veterinary, or aquacultural contexts. - The trout farm had an outbreak of fish lice. - Under the microscope, the fish louse could be seen attached to the gill filament.

Advanced Usage

• "Argulus": This is a common genus referred to as the fish louse. It is often specified in scientific contexts.
  • The species Argulus foliaceus is a widespread fish louse.

Variants and Related Words

• Fish lice: The standard plural form of "fish louse."
• Branchiuran: A scientific term for the subclass of crustaceans that includes the family Argulidae (fish lice).

Synonyms

• Parasitic copepod: A more general scientific term.
• Argulid: Refers specifically to members of the family Argulidae.

Notes on Meaning

The term specifically denotes an ectoparasite (external parasite). It should not be confused with the unrelated "sea louse," which is a parasite on marine fish like salmon, or with "booklouse," which is an insect.

Noun

1. a kind of copepod