Pronunciation: [ˈɒstɹɐkˌɒd] (IPA) 
The word "ostracod" is spelled with an "o" followed by "stracod." The "o" is pronounced as the short "o" sound, similar to the word "hot" or "pot." The "stracod" is pronounced as "stroh-kod." The "a" is long and pronounced as the "oh" sound, as in "go" or "toe." The emphasis is placed on the second syllable, "stracod." Ostracods are small crustaceans found in both marine and freshwater environments.
Ostracods are a group of small, aquatic crustaceans belonging to the class Ostracoda. They are commonly known as seed shrimps or mussel shrimps. Ostracods are characterized by a bivalved carapace, which means their bodies are covered by a hinged shell-like structure composed of calcium carbonate. The carapace is divided into two valves that enclose the body and provide protection.
These tiny organisms inhabit various aquatic environments, including freshwater, brackish water, and marine ecosystems. They can be found in both standing and flowing waters, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Ostracods exhibit remarkable adaptability and can thrive in a wide range of conditions, from polar regions to tropical habitats.
Despite their small size, ostracods play essential ecological roles in aquatic ecosystems. They serve as a significant food source for many organisms, including fish, amphibians, and other invertebrates. Some ostracods are filter feeders, consuming organic particles suspended in the water, while others are scavengers or detritivores.
Ostracods are also valuable indicators for paleontological and paleoecological studies. Their fossilized remains, found in sedimentary rocks, provide scientists with insights into past environmental conditions and the evolution of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, ostracods can be used in monitoring water quality and assessing pollution levels due to their sensitivity to environmental changes.
Overall, ostracods are a diverse and ecologically important group of small crustaceans that contribute significantly to the functioning and dynamics of aquatic ecosystems.
The word "ostracod" is derived from two Greek words. "Ostrakon" means "shell" or "pottery shard", and "eidos" means "form" or "shape". The term was coined by Heinrich Georg Bronn, a German paleontologist, in 1850 to describe small, bivalved crustaceans that have a shell-like appearance. The name "ostracod" refers to the characteristic shape of their shells.
