Common name: Speckled sea louse

General information

The Speckled Sea Louse, Eurydice pulchra, is a species of intertidal isopod found along European coasts. These small crustaceans are part of the family Cirolanidae and are known for their nocturnal behavior and distinctive speckled appearance. They play a role in the ecosystem as scavengers, feeding on dead and decaying organic matter, which helps in nutrient recycling.

Care

Keeping Eurydice pulchra in a home aquarium is not common, but for those interested in a more diverse and biologically accurate intertidal zone representation, they can be an intriguing addition. They require a tank with a well-established sand bed and plenty of hiding places. Stable water quality and a varied diet that includes detritus and small food particles are essential for their well-being.

Reproduction

Speckled Sea Lice have a unique reproductive strategy where females carry the fertilized eggs in a brood pouch until they hatch into free-swimming larvae. These larvae go through several developmental stages before settling down and transforming into the adult form.

Habitat

Eurydice pulchra is typically found in the intertidal zones of sandy beaches, where they burrow into the sand during the day and emerge at night to feed. They are adapted to withstand the changing conditions of the intertidal environment, such as varying salinity and temperature.