Cyclops strenuus A darting mini-lobster
Cyclops strenuus, also known as a copepod (its name means ‘oar-feet’), is an essential part of many ecosystems. This tiny organism feeds on other even tinier organisms, such as algae and bacteria. They serve in turn as food for fish and other aquatic animals, making them an important link in the food chain.
Unique characteristics
One of the most unique aspects of Cyclops strenuus is its appearance. Copepods have a clearly visible dark spot, the eye, which has given rise to the name ‘Cyclops’, after the mythological one-eyed creature.
C. strenuus has six antennae – two at the front and four at the back of the body. It moves the four at the back in a way that resembles rowing, enabling it to move around at great speed. The tiny creature sculls through the water either towards its prey or away from danger. The angle at which the antennae are positioned in relation to each other is an easy means of distinguishing Copepodbetween the different species.
Why is Cyclops strenuus so important?
Cyclops strenuus plays an essential role in aquatic life. Not only do copepods keep algae and bacteria under control, they also help to maintain a healthy balance in aquatic ecosystems. Without them, the inhabitants of many waters would suffocate due to excessive algae growth.
Egg, larva, lobster
Female copepods lay eggs in a sac attached to their body. These hatch into larvae, called naupli. The naupli look quite different from fully grown Cyclops, consisting only of a head and tail with legs, and no body. It takes about a week for the naupli to mature and metamorphose into adult individuals.
Heartless creatures
Just like other crustacean species, Cyclops strenuus has an exoskeleton. Due to their tiny size, their exoskeleton is transparent. In addition to this, their diminutive size means they can absorb oxygen directly from their environment, which means that they do not need lungs, gills or a heart.
Come and see Cyclops strenuus under the microscope
Interested in seeing what Cyclops strenuus really looks like? Visit the museum for a look at them through the microscope. You’ll be amazed at how these tiny creatures come to life when you see them up close. This is a unique opportunity to explore the world of microscopic organisms and comprehend how such a tiny creature can have such a significant impact in nature.
Want to learn more about microbes?
Cyclops strenuus is just one of the many microscopic organisms on display at ARTIS-Micropia, each and every one of them with its own unique role in our world. Come by and discover them all!