Triops gadensis


Triops gadensis is a European species of arthropod in the genus Triops, that belongs to the family of Triopsidae. Triops gadensis are omnivores and in the wild they mainly eat algae and protozoa; larger Triops gadensis that are about in length feed on detritus, plant fibres and tiny crustaceans such as ostracods or copepods. However when food sources are scarce they will cannibalize each other. These crustaceans swim by drag swim power, which is a method of swimming that all Triops use.

Conservation status

Triops gadensis is listed as "Endangered" by the IUCN. It is restricted to just 9 locations in southern Spain. The species is affected by pesticide contamination and habitat fragmentation.