Whale Lice [Cyamus]

Description

Cyamus is a genus of amphipods commonly known as whale lice. These ectoparasites are found on marine mammals, specifically cetaceans like whales and dolphins. They have specialized bodies that allow them to cling onto their hosts, feeding on their skin and body fluids. Despite their parasitic lifestyle, they are an integral part of the marine ecosystem, indicating the health status of their marine mammal hosts.

Species

Gray Whale Lice [Cyamus scammoni]

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Right Whale Lice [Cyamus ovalis]

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Bowhead Whale Lice [Cyamus ceti]

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Rorqual Whale Lice [Cyamus boopis]

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Taxonomy