Versatile Fairy Shrimp
Branchinecta lindahli
A small freshwater crustacean of temporary rain pools and desert playas, the versatile fairy shrimp swims upside down through the water with constant beating motions of its leaflike limbs. It feeds mainly by filtering algae, bacteria, and fine organic particles, though it may also graze suspended debris. Its thin, translucent body offers little armor, so staying in open water and reacting quickly are important defenses. Like many fairy shrimp, it survives dry seasons through drought-resistant eggs that remain in the soil until pools refill.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- ?
- ?
- Versatile Fairy Shrimp