What is "copepoda"

Copepoda \Co*pep"o*da\, n. pl. [NL., from Gr. ? an oar + -poda.] (Zo["o]l.) An order of Entomostraca, including many minute Crustacea, both fresh-water and marine.

Note: They have a distinct carapace. The eggs are carried in a pair of external pouches. Some are parasites of fishes.