Tadpole Shrimp (Triops longicaudatus) - Display

Triops longicaudatus is a prehistoric-looking crustacean whose lineage has remained virtually unchanged for over 200 million years, making it one of the oldest surviving animal species on Earth. Often called a living fossil, it grows with remarkable speed and displays engaging, almost alien foraging behavior as it sifts through substrate for organic material. Kept as an educational and display animal, it is fascinating to observe but unsuitable for community tanks as it will uproot plants and may consume small tank mates.

Keep in a species-only tank with a sandy or fine substrate. No heater needed at room temperature (22–28°C). Feed sinking pellets, spirulina, and organic detritus. Water chemistry is flexible — they are hardy creatures. Lifespan is naturally very short (2–6 months); typically eggs are collected and dried for the next generation. Best treated as a seasonal educational display.