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Copepod images by Melissa Patrician |
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| | 1. A copepod, a cold water zooplankton, is caught on camera by the VPR
(Video Plankton Recorder).
(Photo by Melissa Patrician, WHOI) | | 2. This unsuspecting copepod is caught in a natural pose, with its
antennae extended and the tiny delicate hairs on the end of each antenna are
visible. These delicate structures are often ripped off in specimens collected
in nets.
(Photo by Melissa Patrician, WHOI) | | 3. This tiny copepod sees the flashing strobe of the VPR
and tries to make a run for it. Alas, it is too slow and its picture is still
taken by the VPR. This little copepod is in "flight response" with its tail,
legs, and antennae tucked in close to its body to make it as streamlined as
possible.
(Photo by Melissa Patrician, WHOI) | | 4. The photograph of this copepod was taken at night near the
surface and it is evident from the green matter in its gut that it was actually
feeding on phytoplankton at the surface at the time of the photograph. These
amazing zooplankton actually have the ability to migrate throughout the water
column; to depth during the day, to avoid predation, and then back up to the
surface at night, to feed.
(Photo by Melissa Patrician, WHOI) | | 5. The chaeotognath, or arrow worm, is a carnivorous zooplankton
which preys on other zooplankton. Seen here is the head and body of this
ferocious predator.
(Photo by Melissa Patrician, WHOI) | Last updated: October 17, 2008 |
