Sea Flea

Nebalia sp.

Systematics: Leptostraca Family Nebaliidae

Distinguishing Characters:
Flattened crustaceans with a hinged flap over the eyes and living in muddy environments are sea fleas, sometimes called phyllocarids, sometimes leptostracans and sometime nebaliaceans, depending on what level in the crustacean hierarchy is being referred to. There are several types of crustaceans which jump like fleas but these are not what is referred to here. Leptostracans are never found out of sea water.

This example is an undescribed species of Nebalia, one widespread in southern Australia.

Feedback and queries should be sent to the Discovery Centre at Museum Victoria.
Please note, the Discovery Centre can help you only with questions about crustaceans from southeastern Australia. It can not advise on the care of pet hermit crabs or on crustaceans from other regions.