Tadpole shrimp  (Triops cancriformis)

Due to the uncertain nature of the ponds in which this species occurs, it has an extremely fast life-cycle, and develops from an egg to an adult in just two or three weeks (depending on temperature) after the pond becomes wet again (3). When the pond dries out, the resistant eggs can remain dormant for decades before hatching when the pond is re-flooded (2).

The tadpole shrimp digs in the sediment with its shield to find food (5), it feeds on small invertebrates, microscopic particles and plants (3). It usually swims with its shield upwards (4), but when oxygen levels become very low they may swim 'upside-down' with their legs close to the surface of the water (5).