Copepoda

**Definition:** A huge subclass of mostly marine CRUSTACEA, containing over 14,000 species. The 10 orders comprise both planktonic and benthic organisms, and include both free-living and parasitic forms. Planktonic copepods form the principle link between PHYTOPLANKTON and the higher trophic levels of the marine food chains.

**Tree numbers:** - B01.050.500.131.365.160

**Synonyms:** - Copepods