Longiflagrum amphibium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Longiflagrum amphibium |
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| Holotype (♀) of Longiflagrum amphibium. Top: lateral view. Bottom: dorsal view. Scale bar: 1 mm. | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
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| Class: | |
| Order: |
Tanaidacea
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| Family: |
Parapseudidae
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| Genus: |
Longiflagrum
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| Species: |
L. amphibium
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| Binomial name | |
| Longiflagrum amphibium Stępień & Błażewicz-Paszkowycz, 2009
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Longiflagrum amphibium is a tiny crustacean that lives in estuaries. It belongs to a group called Tanaidacea. This small creature has only been found in one place: the intertidal zone near Port Hedland in Northwestern Australia. The intertidal zone is the area along the coast that is covered by water at high tide and exposed to air at low tide.
What is Longiflagrum amphibium?
Longiflagrum amphibium is a special type of crustacean. It is different from other similar species in its group, Longiflagrum. One way to tell it apart is by its very short "flagellum" on its antennule. An antennule is like a small antenna or feeler that crustaceans use to sense their surroundings. It also has an oval-shaped "pleopod basis," which is part of its swimming legs.
The name amphibium comes from Latin. It means "amphibious." This name fits because the creature lives in the intertidal zone. This area is sometimes underwater and sometimes dry. So, it can live in both water and air for short periods.
Where Does It Live?
All five species in the Longiflagrum group live in shallow coastal areas. These places include the intertidal zone, beds of eelgrass, and estuaries. Estuaries are where fresh river water mixes with salty ocean water.
The amount of salt in these habitats can change a lot. It can go from slightly salty to very salty. Longiflagrum amphibium and its relatives are common in these soft, muddy or sandy environments. They are an important part of the ecosystem there.
