Copepods, a diverse group of small crustaceans found in nearly all aquatic environments, play a crucial role in marine and freshwater ecosystems. This short note provides a synthesis of current knowledge on copepods, highlighting their ecological significance, biological characteristics, and the latest research trends. Emphasizing their role in the food web, the note outlines copepods' contributions to nutrient cycling and their function as a primary food source for many marine organisms. Recent advancements in copepod research, including genetic studies, ecological modeling, and the impacts of climate change, are discussed to provide a comprehensive overview of emerging trends. This synthesis aims to underscore the importance of copepods in ecological studies and to encourage further research in understanding their adaptive strategies and responses to environmental changes.

Copepods, Aquatic ecosystems, Marine biology

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