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Loricifera

Loricifera are Ecdysozoa Eumetazoa Loricifera is a phylum of microscopic, marine animals that were first discovered in 1983. They are named for their characteristic "lorica," which is a protective outer shell made of chitin and minerals. Loricifera are found in marine sediment and gravel, primarily in the interstitial spaces between grains. They are widely distributed and have been found in various locations around the world, from shallow to deep sea environments. These animals are very small, with most species measuring only a few hundred micrometers in length. They have a unique body plan, consisting of a head with a retractable introvert, a neck, a trunk, and a foot. Their bodies are covered in spines and plates, which give them a distinctive appearance. Loricifera are carnivorous, feeding on small organisms such as nematodes and copepods. They use their introvert to capture prey and then consume it using a muscular pharynx. Despite their recent discovery, Loricifera have already been classified into over 30 species. However, due to their small size and obscure habitat, there is still much to learn about these fascinating animals.