Chelura

/kəˈlʊrə/ noun

Definition

A genus of small marine crustaceans (amphipods) known for damaging wood structures underwater by boring into them.

Etymology

From Greek 'chele' (claw) combined with Latin '-ura' (condition or state), named for their claw-bearing appendages used in their destructive wood-boring behavior.

Kelly Says

Chelura terebrans, a type of wood-boring amphipod, costs millions in damage to underwater docks and ships—it's one of the ocean's most destructive tiny creatures you've never heard of!

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