Branchiopoda - Tadpole Shrimp, Water Fleas, Clam Shrimp, Brine Shrimp, Fairy Shrimp

Most of the 800 species found in this class of crustaceans are found in fresh or brackish water. Many species are found in temporary ponds. Their eggs can survive in the soil until the ponds fill back up with water.

Brine shrimp are sometimes called sea monkeys. You can take their eggs and place them in water and they will hatch in a few days!

Many species in this class are used as fish food in aquariums. Branchiopoda range in size from less than a millimeter in length to 10 centimeters in length.