Jaera nordmanni (Rathke, 1837)
Synonyms
Jaera (Jaera) nordmanni (Rathke, 1837)
ID Difficulty
3
Identification
Jaera are small, ubiquitous intertidal marine isopods which can be identified to species by the examination of male reproductive structures (specifically the preoperculum) and pereopods. Preopercula can be examined using a binocular dissecting microscope, but examination of pereopods is best done using a compound microscope at low power.
Jaera nordmanni is a distinctive species with a rounded, flattened body fringed by numerous setae. It is of a fairly uniform colour, lacking the white markings seen in members of the 'albifrons' group. The pointed, neck-tie shaped male preoperculum is diagnostic. Males up to 4.5mm, females up to 3.5mm. See further the Identifying Jaera page.
Distribution and Habitat
Found on coasts around Britain and Ireland, though further fieldwork is required to determine how widespread the species is. It is most typically found under stones in freshwater streams joining the shore, from MTL to above HWS.
Distribution
Reference
Naylor, E. & A. Brandt. 2015. Intertidal Marine Isopods. Synopses of the British Fauna (New Series), No. 3. Field Studies Council, for The Linnean Society of London.
idBmigTaxa
666