An Ostracod From My Microbe Aquarium

Ostracods, commonly known as seed shrimp, are tiny crustaceans encased in a bivalved shell, resembling miniature clams. While often overlooked, they are fascinating microorganisms, exhibiting complex behaviors despite their small size. In my microbe aquarium, I recently observed an ostracod gliding through the water with rhythmic, coordinated movements of its delicate appendages. Its translucent shell allowed a glimpse of its internal organs, and under the microscope, fine details such as its antennae and segmentation became visible.

This short video captures the ostracod’s movement and interaction with its environment. Viewed at 100x the footage highlights the organism’s rapid yet controlled movement. The ostracod’s distinctive single eye is clearly visible, a feature that aids in detecting light and shadows. Observing these tiny creatures under the microscope offers a glimpse into the complexity of aquatic microfauna, reinforcing the idea that even the smallest life forms possess remarkable structures and behaviors.