ostracoda
A student observes a tiny ostracoda swimming in a water sample under a microscope.
Noun A subclass of small, bivalved crustaceans commonly known as seed shrimps. They are characterized by a hinged, calcified carapace (shell) that completely encloses their body and limbs.
The term "Ostracoda" is used as a scientific taxonomic name (capitalized) to refer to the entire subclass. In more general scientific writing, it is used to discuss the group's biology, ecology, or fossil record. * The fossil record of the Ostracoda is exceptionally rich due to their durable shells. * Researchers study Ostracoda as bioindicators of water quality.
- The sediment sample was full of Ostracoda.
- Ostracoda are found in both marine and freshwater environments.
- The anatomy of an Ostracoda is mostly concealed within its two-part shell.
In paleontology and geology, the shells of Ostracoda (called ostracods or valves) are critical microfossils used for biostratigraphy (dating rock layers) and paleoenvironmental reconstruction. * The assemblage of Ostracoda in this core sample indicates a shallow, brackish paleoenvironment.
- Ostracod (noun): An individual organism belonging to the subclass Ostracoda. This is the common term used for a single animal or in plural for multiple animals.
- Several ostracods were swimming in the petri dish.
- Ostracode: An alternative spelling for "ostracod."
- Ostracodan (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of ostracods.
- The ostracodan fauna of the lake is diverse.
- Seed shrimp (common name)
- Mussel shrimp (less common common name)
"Ostracoda" is a plural noun (treating the group as a collection of members). When referring to a single animal, the word "ostracod" is used. The name derives from the Greek ostrakon, meaning "shell" or "tile."
A student observes a tiny ostracoda swimming in a water sample under a microscope.
- seed shrimps