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The secret of Brachionus calyciflorus: Why has this tiny creature become a star of scientific research?
In the microscopic world, almost all life forms have their own unique characteristics. Brachionus calyciflorus, a common freshwater rotifer, plays a pivotal role in scientific research despite its small size. Through its rapid reproductive capacity and high sensitivity to environmental changes, this organism has become an ideal model organism in fields such as ecology, toxicology, and evolutionary biology.
Taxonomy
The taxonomy of Brachionus calyciflorus was established based on morphological and molecular characteristics. As a member of the phylum Rotifera, it shares characteristics with other rotifers, including a ciliated crown ring and a characteristic rotational motion.
In the genus Brachionus, B. plicatilis is also a commonly used species in research. Brachionus calyciflorus is distinguished from other species by its unique cup-shaped shell.
Morphology
Brachionus calyciflorus has a characteristic morphology that distinguishes it from other rotifer species. Its body is slender and cylindrical in shape, about 160 to 350 microns long and 80 to 160 microns wide. The retractable head contains a characteristic ring of cilia called the coronal ring, which is the organ used for feeding and locomotion.
The creature's shell is made up of two pieces. The upper piece forms a cup-shaped structure that covers the head of the body, while the lower piece is oval-shaped and covers the rest of the body.
Life history
The life cycle of Brachionus calyciflorus begins with the hatching of eggs, which can be fertilized or produced through parthenogenesis. The hatched larvae are called "non-mating" females, which are diploid and develop directly into fertile females.
When food is in short supply, some non-mating females will switch to sexual reproductive mode, producing haploid male offspring, who will then cause the female to lay eggs, resulting in the production of dormant eggs.
Habitat and distribution
Brachionus calyciflorus is a freshwater rotifer species widely distributed around the world. It is commonly found in a variety of freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, streams, etc. This species is salt-tolerant and can survive in both fresh and salt water environments.
In addition, Brachionus calyciflorus is a species with a wide distribution around the world and has been reported in many countries, including North America, South America, Europe and Asia.
Importance
Brachionus calyciflorus, as an important zooplankton, has a non-negligible contribution to freshwater ecosystems. Here's why it's important:
- Serves as an important food source for a variety of aquatic organisms.
- As an indicator species for changes in water environment.
- In toxicology research, it is widely used as a test organism due to its sensitivity to toxic substances.
- Contributes to the bioremediation of water pollution as it feeds on harmful algae and bacteria.
Farming
Breeding Brachionus calyciflorus needs to be done in a controlled environment. Key factors to consider include:
- Culture containers should be clean and have a large surface area.
- The optimal breeding temperature is between 20°C and 28°C.
- Provide a light source to ensure a 12-hour light-dark cycle.
- Choose suitable feeding sources such as microalgae and bacteria.
- Keep the pH of the culture water between 6.5 and 7.5.
Reproduction
Brachionus calyciflorus usually reproduces through cyclic parthenogenesis. The reproductive pattern of this species is very flexible and can change according to changes in environmental conditions.
Species complex
Like the cryptic species complex of Brachionus plicatilis, Brachionus calyciflorus may consist of multiple species.
In conclusion, Brachionus calyciflorus is not only an important object of ecological and toxicological research, but its potential in culture and bioremediation cannot be ignored. What implications do these tiny creatures have for our understanding of the complexity of aquatic ecology and future environmental science research?
