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Species Idotea metallica

Idotea metallica - male - female Idotea metallica - male - female Idotea metallica Idotea metallica Idotea metallica Idotea metallica Idotea metallica
Classification
Kingdom Animalia (Animals)
Phylum Arthropoda (Arthropods)
Subphylum Crustacea (Crustaceans)
Class Malacostraca (Malacostracans)
Superorder Peracarida (Marsupial Crustaceans)
Order Isopoda (Isopods)
No Taxon (Scutocoxifera)
Suborder Valvifera (Valve-tailed Isopods)
Family Idoteidae
Genus Idotea
Species metallica (Idotea metallica)
Explanation of Names
Idotea metallica Bosc 1802
Identification
Among New England valviferan isopods (and probably among other regional valviferan fauna as well), can be identified by the blunt, squared off shape of the telson. Also distinctive is the metallic blue coloration.(1)
Habitat
Pelagic. Doesn't breed nearshore due to competition from I. balthica and other species. Can drift ashore with seaweed it's attached to.
Internet References
Works Cited
1.The Arthrostraca of Connecticut
Kunkel B.W. 1918. Connecticut State Geological and Natural History Survey.