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Tadpole shrimp, also known as Triops, are a fascinating and intriguing species of prehistoric crustaceans that bear a striking resemblance to horseshoe crabs. These creatures are capable of growing up to approximately two inches in length and possess visible carapace that covers a portion of their body. Tadpole shrimp are omnivores and rely on their antennae to detect food, often scavenging through substrate, where they consume macroinvertebrates and occasionally chew on plants. The lifespan of tadpole shrimp can vary, ranging from several weeks to several months, on the prevailing environmental conditions. One of the most notable features of tadpole shrimp is that many of them are hermaphrodites, which eliminates the necessity for mating to produce offspring. A mature tadpole shrimp has the remarkable capacity to lay hundreds of eggs during its lifetime, and these eggs remain in a dormant state within the soil until they encounter the crucial trigger of submersion in rainwater, initiating the hatching process. Their remarkable adaptability extends to their choice of habitats, as tadpole shrimps are known to thrive in temporary freshwater environments, including vernal pools, seasonal ponds, and other shallow water habitats that materialize during wet seasons but may desiccate during dry spells. Their evolutionary prowess is further evidenced by their ability to enter diapause, a state of suspended animation, which allows them to endure adverse conditions and reawaken when circumstances become conducive to their survival.

Tadpole Shrimp
Species Showcase

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