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From freshwater to ocean: How does Brachionus calyciflorus survive in different environments?
Today, when biodiversity is receiving increasing attention, many tiny organisms are gradually emerging in scientific research. Among them, Brachionus calyciflorus, a planktonic rotifer, has aroused widespread interest among ecologists and toxicologists because of its short life cycle and special reproduction method. This article will explore how this species survives in different freshwater and marine environments and its importance to ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Brachionus calyciflorus belongs to the phylum Rotifera, and its taxonomic structure is clear and well established based on morphological and molecular characteristics. As a member of the rotifer group, it shares some similar features with other rotifers, such as tentacle crests and a characteristic rotational movement. There are several other species in this genus, of which Brachionus plicatilis is also widely used in research and aquaculture.
Its unique vase-shaped shell makes it stand out among its peers.
Morphology
Brachionus calyciflorus has extremely distinct morphological features that distinguish it from other rotifer species. Its body is elongated and cylindrical, with a length of approximately 160 to 350 microns and a width of 80 to 160 microns. The head is retractable and has a characteristic ring of tentacles, called a tentacle crest, which is mainly used for eating and locomotion.
In addition, its shell is composed of two separate plates, the upper plate is shaped like a vase and covers the head, while the lower plate is oval-shaped and covers the rest of the body. This shell not only gives structural support but also provides protection.The tentacle crown consists of two types of tentacles, the anterior tentacles are larger and the ventral tentacles are smaller.
Life cycle
The life cycle of Brachionus calyciflorus begins with the hatching of eggs, which can be fertilized or produced via parthenogenesis. The larvae that hatch from these eggs are called "asexual females" and these females develop into fertile females without going through meiosis, creating clones of themselves. Once food is scarce, some asexually reproducing females will turn to reduction reproduction to give birth to male offspring. The male then fertilizes the female's haploid eggs, ultimately producing diploid dormant eggs that can hatch when environmental conditions are suitable.
Habitat and distribution
Brachionus calyciflorusAs a freshwater rotifer, it is widely distributed around the world and is commonly found in various freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, streams and rivers. This species is highly salty and can survive in fresh and brackish water habitats and adapt to different environmental conditions such as pH, water temperature and oxygen levels. It has been reported in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Spain, France, Sweden, Russia and Japan.
An important aquaculture organism,
Brachionus calyciflorusis cultured in laboratories and used as feed for fish and other aquatic organisms.
Importance
Brachionus calyciflorus plays an important role in freshwater ecosystems. It is vital to fish, amphibians and invertebrates as a food source for many aquatic organisms. In addition, this rotifer can also be used as an indicator of changes in the water environment, helping to assess the health of aquatic systems by monitoring its population dynamics.
Due to its sensitivity to toxicants,Under the influence of environmental pollution and climate change, monitoring changes can provide important ecological data.
Brachionus calyciflorus is widely used in ecotoxicological studies and is used to assess potential risks to human health and the environment. It is also considered a potential water bioremediation agent for its ability to consume harmful algae and bacteria.
Cultivation
There are many important factors to consider when cultivating Brachionus calyciflorus, including selecting the appropriate culture container, maintaining appropriate temperature and light, and maintaining stable water quality. For example, the optimal culture temperature is between 20°C and 28°C, and microalgae need to be provided as food.
The pH of the agitated water should be maintained between 6.5 and 7.5. Proper lighting and photoperiod are also essential.
Reproduction methods
Brachionus calyciflorus usually reproduces through periodic parthenogenesis, but when environmental conditions change, it may also switch to forced parthenogenesis.
Species complexity
Brachionus calyciflorus also appears to be a species complex similar to Brachionus plicatilis, possibly consisting of multiple species.
As scientific research progresses, our understanding of Brachionus calyciflorus continues to expand. These tiny creatures not only occupy an important position in aquatic ecology, but also play an indispensable role in environmental monitoring and water quality protection. As this knowledge accumulates, we cannot help but ask, can these rotifers be our best partners in future ecological protection and restoration efforts?
