CRYPTONISCUS
Planktonic larval stage of epicaridean isopod with pereopods modified as holdfasts. Stage at which larva seeks a permanent host [McLaughlin, 1980].
(Order Isopoda):
Third of three larval stages (epicaridium, microniscus, cryptoniscus) in certain parasitic isopods. Free-living, more elongate, and characterized by seven pairs of grasping pereopods. Swims by means of antennae pleopods and attaches to final host [Stachowitsch, 1992].