Quick facts

Animal groupCrustacean
ActivityMixed
Active seasonYear-round
CommonYes
Can flyNo
VenomousNo
PollinatorNo
Best timeYear-round.

About Copepod

Copepods are tiny crustaceans living in marine and freshwater environments. They are a key part of plankton and aquatic food chains. Copepods are usually invisible to the naked eye.

They feed on algae and microorganisms. Copepods form the foundation of many aquatic ecosystems.

Habitat

Marine and freshwater environments

Diet

Algae, microorganisms and other plankton; some species are predatory.

Microhabitat

Marine and freshwater environments; many species form part of the plankton.
Last verified: 08/09/2026