Lepidurus couesii, commonly referred to as the Coues Tadpole shrimp, is a member of the Triopsidae family. This species thrives in a variety of habitats such as dry lake beds, temporary pools, and others, especially during the colder and spring seasons. It is often found in North America, notably in the northern regions of the United States like Idaho, Montana, and North Dakota, as well as in parts of Canada.
Anatomy: The characteristics outlined below may exhibit variations influenced by environmental conditions, population dynamics, and the organism's age.
Head:
Carapace:
The carapace, a shell-like structure, extends over the body and varies in shape and the presence of spines. It is generally wider in females than in males.
Naupliar & Compound eyes:
They contain a pair of compound eyes with a naupliar eye on the anterior midline, and the distance between the eyes may vary.
Mandibular & Cervical groove:
These features mark the division between the head and thorax.
Thorax:
Thoracopods:
Thoracic appendages vary according to their location on the body, each specializing in distinct functions like sensory perception, movement, feeding, and breathing.
Reproductive Segments:
Lepidurus typically exhibit hermaphroditism, yet certain populations display gonochorism, where males and females are separate.
Abdomen:
Segments are adorned with spines, with males possessing more segments than females.
Tail:
Supra-anal plate:
The supra-anal plate is generally a tough, shield-like structure whose shape and size may differ among species. It serves as a protective layer for the anus and adjacent regions, safeguarding them from possible harm and predators.
Cercopods:
Long whiplike structures attached the telson.
Morphology:
Size: Lepidurus couesii typically measures 2 to 3 inches in length, contingent on prevailing environmental conditions.
Coloration: The coloration varies among different populations.
Captivity and Growth:
Growth is influenced by multiple factors such as temperature, salinity, and care. These temperature ranges are based on our experience but do not represent the maximum or minimum.
Hatching Temperature Range: Lepidurus couesii eggs hatch within a temperature range of 50 to 70°F.
Temperature Range for Adults: Adult Lepidurus couesii flourish in temperatures ranging from 62 to 70°F.
Hatching: Metanauplii emerge within 48 to 72 hours, or sometimes longer, at temperatures ranging from 68 to 70°F.
Growth Rate: They exhibit a slow growth rate, reaching sexual maturity in 14 to 30 days.
Behavior: Tadpole shrimps typically feed on the benthos, scavenging for food or preying on other organisms. If food is scarce, they may ascend to the surface in search of nourishment. This behavior can also occur in response to low oxygen levels when they need to access air.
Reproduction: Many populations are hermaphroditic, with females able to produce eggs via parthenogenesis. In contrast, some populations are gonochoric, necessitating the presence of both males and females to produce offspring. During the mating process, males court females.
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