National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Carlsbad Caverns National ParkLake Chandelier in Lechuguilla Cave.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Crustaceans
A terrestrial isopod, in the family Trichoniscidae from near the lunchroom in Carlsbad Cavern. It's probably a Brackenridgia sp.
Photo courtesy of Zara Environmental LLC
This crustacean, a terrestrial isopod in the family Trichoniscidae, was photographed near the underground lunchroom in Carlsbad Cavern.
 

Most of the known crustaceans in Carlsbad Caverns National Park are cave-dwelling creatures. These include intriguing animals such as copepods called Cyclops vernalis and branchiopods called water fleas (Holopedium amazonicum).

Also among the crustaceans are the group called isopods, including groups such as sowbugs, pillbugs and woodlice. The park has several species both below and above ground. Unfortunately, the above-ground pillbugs are probably not native.

Crayfish are the best-known crustaceans, and they have been found at Rattlesnake Springs. Identified as the red swamp or Louisiana crayfish, they also are not native to New Mexico.

Ice-age sloth  

Did You Know?
Bones from ice age animals like jaguars, camels, lions and giant sloths have been found in the entrance areas of some caves in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Last Updated: October 24, 2007 at 16:29 EST