Table of Contents
Fast Facts
krill
crustacean
Feedback
Thank you for your feedback
Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.
External Websites
Britannica Websites
Articles from Britannica Encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.
- Related Topics:
- bioluminescence marine bioluminescence Eucarida Antarctic krill
krill, any member of the crustacean order Euphausiacea or of the genus Euphausia within that suborder. Euphausiids are shrimplike marine animals that are pelagic in habit (i.e., they live in the open sea). They differ from true shrimp (order Decapoda) in that their gills are located on the swimming legs, and fewer legs are modified for feeding. They range in size from 8 to 60 mm (about 1/4 to 2 inches). Eighty-two species have been described. Most have bioluminescent organs (photophores) on the lower side, making them visible at night. They are of great importance in certain regions of the ...(100 of 417 words)