Amphipod diversity

Amphipods are small, shrimp-like creatures found in a wide range of aquatic environments, from oceans to freshwater bodies. They exhibit remarkable diversity, with thousands of species adapted to different habitats, from deep-sea vents to coastal waters and even moist terrestrial areas. Their body shapes, sizes, and behaviors vary greatly, allowing them to occupy various ecological roles like scavengers, herbivores, or predators. This diversity helps maintain healthy ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and food webs. Overall, amphipods demonstrate significant evolutionary adaptability, reflecting their key role in aquatic and some terrestrial ecosystems.