A A review of the Ecology and Biology of Tadpole Shrimp (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Notostraca)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/KOSMOS.2025.033Keywords
tadpole shrimp, Branchiopoda, ephemeral ponds, ecologyAbstract
Notostracans usually inhabit periodic reservoirs characterised by unstable physical and chemical conditions, to which they have developed several morphological and physiological adaptations. Notostracans are known for their ability to lay resistant to extreme environmental conditions eggs (dormant eggs), i.e. drying out, freezing, or high temperatures. Due to its morphological conservatism, it has been labeled a "living fossil," but it is now recognized as a stabilomorph. Due to its unusual appearance, tadpole shrimp are highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts and increasingly popular among researchers for laboratory studies in ecotoxicology and behavior. Human activities directly impact the occurrence of these crustaceans, as habitat loss due to drainage or pollution contributes to the decline of tadpole shrimp habitats. Due to habitat loss, tadpole shrimp are endangered, hence the importance of protecting their habitats. This is especially crucial since such small, temporary water bodies play a significant role in local biodiversity.
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