Tadpole shrimp  (Triops cancriformis)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

The species is widely distributed in Europe through to Russia, and from the Middle East to India. In Great Britain it was recorded during the 18th and 19th centuries from Kent, Bristol, Dorset and Worcestershire, and until September 2004 it was thought to be restricted to just one pond in the New Forest in Hampshire. However, it was then found in pools in Caerlaverock in southwest Scotland (5). Genetic studies on the species may reveal that the species found in Britain has great international importance (3).

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

This species lives in temporary ponds that dry out in summer (3).

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