meiofauna

/ ˈmaɪəʊˌfɔːnə /

noun

1. the component of the fauna of a sea or lake bed comprising small (but not microscopic) animals, such as tiny worms and crustaceans

Derived Forms

• ˌmeioˈfaunal, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of meiofauna¹

C20: from Greek meiōn less + fauna