How to recognize a Centropages female:

Using a binocular :

Head with a triangular top and a shoulder shape.

5 thoracic segments are visible.

A1 as long or slightly longer than the boby.

P5 are quite symmetrical, biramous, and have a size similar to other legs.

Urosome is often asymmetrical with 3 visible segments.

Furca is quite long (about 1/3 of urosome lenght) and its distal part is usually slightly larger than its proximal part.

Using a microscope :

The second segment of the P5 exopodite have a strong inner marginal spine.

How to differenciate C. violaceus from other Centropages

Using a binocular :

A1 is clearly longer than the body

Corners of the last thoracic segment are rounded

Genital segment without spines but with a patch of spinules on the right side.

Genital segment and 2nd segment with ventral protrusions

Using a microscope :

P5 exopodite: the inner spine on the second segment is straight and slightly shorter than the third segment .

Ecological Notes :