![]() ![]() With the exception of several species, adult bopyrids generally occur in the branchial chamber (gills) or on the abdomen of the host, depending on the subfamily. Aptly named, the isopods in this Suborder are most commonly but not exclusively found on shrimp. Within this Order is the Suborder Epicaridea which is derived from the Latin words "Epi" meaning "on" and "carid" which means shrimp. The Order Isopoda consists of approximately 5,000 species. We believe that the parasitic isopods found under their carapace were of the Parabopyrella mortenseni species The peppermint shrimp, Lysmata boggessi, with isopods attached. We hope this article will help every day aquarists, store owners and other industry professionals learn a little more about these mysterious and extraordinarily fascinating creatures. (multiple species identified), having the highest frequency of occurrence, followed by Lysmata amboinensis. Through our experience we have found these parasites most common in shrimp of the Lysmata genus, with the Atlantic peppermint shrimp, Lysmata sp. These ectoparasites are a relatively common site to the staff here at Quality Marine, as crustaceans are always in high demand by aquarists, we handle them by the thousands. Once fully developed, bopyrid are easy to spot as the presence of the large female induces the carapace of the host to grow around the parasite, creating an abnormal discolored bulge. This family of isopods acts similarly to the common leech, latching onto its host and slowly sucking the hosts blood. ![]() If you have ever asked the question whats that strange lump on the side of my peppermint shrimp? chances are you have had a shrimp with a parasitic isopod from the Bopyridae family. The Parasitic Relationship between Bopyrid Isopods & their Hosts: with Special Reference to the Parasitism of Ornamental Crustacea by Bopyrid Species ![]()
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