Oar Feet and Opal Teeth: About Copepods and Copepodologists

Oar Feet and Opal Teeth is a book about copepods, a subclass of Crustacea, that act as dominant herbivores and small predators in planktonic ecosystems. It includes over twenty biographical sketches of copepodologists and reviews recent evolutionary insights based on molecular genetics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 525 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Copepods are a fascinating subclass of arthropods known as crustaceans, and they play a crucial role in the planktonic ecosystems of oceans, estuaries, and lakes. These small creatures are not only dominant herbivores and small predators but also the largest assemblage of complex animals on Earth. Despite their ecological significance and remarkable adaptability, copepods are relatively unknown to many biologists and animal enthusiasts. In his book, "Oar Feet and Opal Teeth," Charles B. Miller takes readers on a journey to explore the world of copepods and the dedicated scientists who study them.

The book is divided into twenty-one chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of copepod biology. In the first two chapters, Miller delves into the distinctive features of copepods, including their four or five pairs of oar-like feet, which they use for escape jumps. He also discusses the teeth on mandible extensions, which are formed with siliceous minerals akin to opal, giving them a unique and striking appearance.

The subsequent chapters provide a comprehensive overview of copepod anatomy, taxonomy, and natural history. Miller discusses their internal structure, reproductive processes, feeding habits, and interactions with other marine organisms. He also reviews recent evolutionary insights about copepods, which have been gained through molecular genetics and trace back to the Cambrian explosion. The book includes over twenty biographical sketches of copepodologists, ranging from the mid-twentieth century to the present. These sketches provide a glimpse into the lives and work of these scientists, highlighting their contributions to the field.

Russell Hopcroft, a renowned plankton photographer, contributes full-color copepod images throughout the book, adding visual appeal to the scientific content. Jeannette Yen, a researcher studying the prey. Euchaeta marina, explores how copepods detect prey and the mechanisms involved in mate attraction. Shinichi Uye of Hiroshima University focuses on the production of resting eggs by copepods and their delayed development. Grace Wyngaard, a current researcher, is studying the special embryonic development of copepods.

Overall, "Oar Feet and Opal Teeth" is an excellent resource for anyone interested in marine biology, ecology, or the fascinating world of copepods. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to these small crustaceans, shedding light on their biology, behavior, and ecological significance. The book is sure to captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds, and it will inspire further research and exploration into the diverse and remarkable world of copepods.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197637326