copepod
/ˈkoʊpəˌpɑd/
noun
- A small aquatic crustacean, often found in both saltwater and freshwater, that is an important part of the food chain for fish and other animals.
- Whale sharks feed on tiny copepods by filtering huge amounts of water.
- Copepods are a key food source for many young fish in the ocean.
- The scientist collected copepods from the lake to study their role in the ecosystem.