Definition
ostracode
noun
- A small crustacean of the class Ostracoda, typically having a bivalve shell and found in marine and freshwater environments.
Usage: Also called ostracod.; Primarily used in scientific and paleontological contexts.
Examples
- Ostracodes are among the most abundant fossils found in sedimentary rocks.
- The paleontologist examined ostracode shells to determine the age of the rock layer.
- Ostracodes play an important role in freshwater ecosystems as filter feeders.
- These tiny ostracodes are less than a millimeter in length.
- Marine ostracodes have been used as indicators of past ocean conditions.