Copepods
There are many different species of Copepods. Few of the species in vernal pools have been named. You are most likely to spot the bright red Diaptomus and at least…
Fairy Shrimp
Fairy Shrimp are pale-colored (normally gray-white) and transparent. They have a long, narrow body with 11 pairs of paddle-like legs. Females have a brood pouch which holds eggs, located directly…
Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp
Vernal Pool Tadpole Shrimp have a shield-like cover called a carapace. They can be mottled olive-green, brown or gray. Their abdomen sticks out behind the carapace and ends in two…
Seed Shrimp
Many different species of Seed Shrimp live in vernal pools. They come in many colors. They have a single eye. The body of a Seed Shrimp is protected by two…
Protozoa
Protozoa are single-celled animals that come in many shapes and sizes. The most common shapes are round, oval, bell-shaped and slipper-shaped. Protozoa are clear. They become the color of the…
Clam Shrimp
A Clam Shrimp looks like a small clam. Two shells cover its body. Between the shells you can see two body sections below the head. The front section is the…
Water Flea
A Water Flea swims in a jerky, hopping motion like a flea. A carapace (shell) covers most of its body. The carapace is hinged on one side. The other side…
Vernal Pools
…vernal pools hold the eggs, cysts and seeds that will give life to the next generation. The winter rain awakens them, restarting the cycle each year. Visiting Vernal Pools Visiting…