How to recognize a Scolecithricella female:

Using a binocular :

Rostrum bifurcated

Cephalosome rounded in both dorsal and lateral view (no crest)

First thoracic segment fused with cephalosome.

Two last thoracic segments fused.

P5 reduced

Using a microscope :

P5 uniramous, 1-segmented and very flattened

 

How to differenciate S. dentata from other Scolecithricella

Using a binocular :

Posterior margin of last Thoracic segment with indentation in lateral view

Using a microscope :

P5 with a short spine on the inner margin and a very small distal spine (no spine on the outer margin).

 

Ecological Notes :

epi-mesopelagic