Sea louse

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Sea louse

Sea louse (pronunciation: /siː laʊs/), plural sea lice (pronunciation: /siː laɪs/), is a common name for many species of parasitic copepods that are part of the order Siphonostomatoida. The term is often used to describe members of the family Caligidae.

Etymology

The term "sea louse" is derived from the Old English "sǣ" meaning "sea" and "lūs" meaning "louse". It is a direct translation of the creature's nature and habitat.

Description

Sea lice are small, often microscopic, crustaceans that attach themselves to marine fish species. They are ectoparasites, meaning they live on the outside of their hosts. Sea lice feed on the mucus, blood, and skin of the fish they infest.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a sea louse includes several stages: egg, nauplius, copepodid, and adult. The duration of these stages can vary depending on the species of sea louse and the environmental conditions.

Impact on Aquaculture

Sea lice infestations can have a significant impact on aquaculture, particularly salmon farming. They can cause damage to the fish and lead to secondary infections. Control measures include the use of chemicals, cleaner fish, and physical removal.

Related Terms

External links

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