Reticulated water flea
Ceriodaphnia reticulata
The reticulated water flea is a small freshwater crustacean belonging to the order Cladocera. It is characterized by an almost circular body and a distinct, net-like pattern on the surface of its carapace. The species prefers stagnant, nutrient-rich waters with abundant aquatic vegetation and represents a vital component of the aquatic food web.
Details
Identification
Reticulated pattern on the carapace, short head without a prominent rostrum, usually lacks a spine at the posterior end.
Social behavior
Often occurs in high population densities near macrophytes, but does not exhibit complex social behavior.
Diet
Feeds as a filter feeder on unicellular algae, bacteria, and fine organic detritus.
Hunting strategy
Passive filtration of the water column through rhythmic beating of the thoracic appendages.
Spawning substrate
Resting eggs are released directly into the water column and sink to the bottom of the water body.
Overwintering
Overwintering occurs as a resting egg (ephippium) in the sediment, which can survive freezing and desiccation.
Ecology
Ecological role
Key primary consumer that transfers energy from phytoplankton to higher trophic levels such as fish.
Natural predators
Juvenile fish, predatory zooplankton such as Chaoborus larvae, and backswimmers.
Competitor species
Other cladocerans such as Daphnia pulex or various species of rotifers.
Ecosystem service
Contributes to water clarification by reducing algal blooms through intensive filtration.
Threats
Input of insecticides, excessive fish stocking, and loss of small water bodies.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Characteristic hexagonal or pentagonal reticulated pattern on the carapace (hence the name). The fornices (lateral head plates) often bear a small spine or tooth. The postabdomen has 7 to 10 robust spines, and the terminal claws are smooth.
Reproduction
Cyclical parthenogenesis; asexual reproduction during favorable seasons, production of males and resting eggs when environmental conditions deteriorate.
Role in food web
Important primary consumer in the littoral zone; converts bacterial and primary biomass into energy available for higher trophic levels.
Protection & threats
Main threats
Loss of small water bodies through infilling or drainage, excessive fish stocking (predation pressure), and pesticide runoff from agriculture.