FREE ESSAY ON CERIODAPHNIA

CERIODAPHNIA

 Ceriodaphnia
Anatomy:
Ceriodaphnia has six pairs of lobed legs which bear numerous hairs. Their head is bent
downwards and is set from the body by a cervical sinus. The head also has two large
secondary
antennas that are positioned laterally near the posterior margin. (Pennak, 1989) The
Ceriodaphnia's mouth is located near the junction of the head and body. The
Ceriodaphnia's body
is covered by a carapace which allows protrusion of only the head and abdomen. One of
the
Ceriodaphnia's most noticeable features is its large compound eye. 
Reproduction: The Ceriodaphnia reproduces parthenogenetically, which means the
Ceriodaphnia
can reproduce without fertilization of the egg. The egg undergoes a single maturation
division in
the ovary and a number are released at a time by the oviducts. (Pennak, 1989) Usually
10-20 eggs
are released. 
Ecological Niche: Ceriodaphnia are very diverse as they can live in either oxygen rich or
oxygen
poor environments due to their ability to synthesize hemoglobin. Ceriodaphnia live in all
regions
of lakes and ponds whether it is on the surface or near the bottom soil. Ceriodaphnia
serves as the
main food source for the Hydra in an ecosystem.
Notes of Interest: Ceriodaphnia feed on green algae. They also have thoracic appendages
that are
modified phyllopodia that has bristles for food collecting and respiratory functions.
(Prescott,
1978)