Micrognathozoa (sometimes called Phylum Gnathifera)
Name Meaning: Tiny jaw animals
English Common Name: Micrognathozoans
Major distinguishing characteristics: Accordion like extensible thorax
Approximate number of species described: 1
Natural History
Micrognathozoa are one of the smallest animals, averaging one-tenth of a millimeter (0.004 inches) long.
Its main diet is bacteria, blue-green algae and diatoms.
L. maerski has a large ganglion, or 'brain', in its head, and paired nerve cords
Taxonomy
One species is known. It's classification is:
Class Micrognathozoa
Order Limnognathida
Family Limnognathiidae
species Limnognathia maerski
Anatomy
They have very complicated jaws, the parts connected by ligaments and muscles. They can extend part of the jaw outside the mouth to eat or regurgitate indigestible items.
It's possible that Micrognathans hatch as males and become female as they grow.
The Fossil Record
There is no known fossil record.
Quiz
Micrognathozoa Quiz
References and Further Reading
Micrognathozoa at Wikipedia (the sole genus is Limnognathia)
Micrognathozoa at Tree of Life (the sole species is Limnognathia maerski)
