Giant isopod facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Giant isopods |
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Cirolanidae
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Bathynomus
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Giant isopods are large crustaceans that live on the bottom of the ocean. They are related to crabs and shrimp. These amazing animals can grow quite big. They can be up to 45 cm long. That's about the length of a school ruler and a half! They can also weigh up to 1.7 kg. This is about the same weight as a small pet cat.
There are about 9 different types, or species, of giant isopods known today. They are often called "sea cockroaches" because of their appearance.
Contents
What Are Giant Isopods?
Giant isopods are a type of isopod. Isopods are a group of crustaceans. They have a flat body and many legs. You might know their land relatives, the pill bugs or roly-polys. Giant isopods are much, much bigger than those you find in your garden. They have hard shells that protect their bodies. They also have large, reflective eyes.
Where Do Giant Isopods Live?
Giant isopods live in the very deep parts of the ocean. They are found in depths from about 170 meters down to 2,200 meters. That's like living at the bottom of a very tall skyscraper! Most of them live between 365 meters and 730 meters deep.
They prefer to live on the ocean floor. This floor is usually made of mud or clay. Giant isopods are often found living alone. They do not usually live in groups.
What Do Giant Isopods Eat?
Giant isopods are important scavengers in the deep sea. This means they eat dead animals that sink to the ocean floor. Their usual meals include dead whales, fish, and squid. They help to keep the ocean clean by eating these remains.
They can also hunt for slow-moving prey. This includes animals like sea cucumbers, sponges, and tiny worms called nematodes. Scientists think they might even catch live fish sometimes. They have strong jaws to help them eat their food.
Images for kids
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A frontal view of Bathynomus giganteus, showing its large, highly reflective compound eyes
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The underside of Bathynomus giganteus
See also
In Spanish: Bathynomus para niños
