Description: This amphipod builds semi-permanent U-shaped burrows in fine sediment and is tolerant of a wide range of salinities from brackish or almost fresh water to fully marine. It is mostly white with brown markings and reaches up to 11 mm in size. There are two pairs of antennae on the head, the first of which is small and the second of which is particularly long and thick.

Habitat: Intertidal fine sediment found in mudflats, salt marsh or brackish water in ditches or pools.

Distribution: Widespread around Britain and Ireland where there is suitable habitat.

Similar Species: There are many species of Corophium found in Britain and Ireland. The particularly long, thick set of antenna and habitat preference should help distinguish, although a specialist key or microscopic examination may be required.

Key Identification Features:

• U-shaped burrows.
• Two pairs of antennae on head.
• One pair particularly long and thick.

Distribution Map from NBN: Corophium volutator at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Corophium volutator at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Corophium volutator

WoRMS: Corophium volutator at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Corophium volutator (Pallas, 1766). AphiaID: 102101.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Arthropoda; Crustacea; Multicrustacea; Malacostraca; Eumalacostraca; Peracarida; Amphipoda; Senticaudata; Corophiida; Corophiidira; Corophioidea; Corophiidae; Corophiinae; Corophiini; Corophium