Brachionus angularis

Brachionus angularis : Brachionus angularis is a small (86-200 micrometer) freshwater, planktonic rotifer commonly found in nutrient-enriched waters. Known for its round shape and two tiny antero-median spines, it is easily cultured and used as live food for small-mouthed freshwater fish larvae in aquaculture.

Characteristics and Biology

• Diet: Feeds on micro-algae, such as Chlorella vulgaris.
• Reproduction: Exhibits high fecundity and fast population growth, often displaying \(r\)-strategist characteristics, making it ideal for experimental biology.
• Environmental Response: It can adapt to stress by increasing its lorica thickness rather than growing long spines, particularly when exposed to predator cues from the predatory rotifer Asplanchna.

In Aquaculture, its small size makes it a preferred starter food for freshwater fish larvae. In research it is used in ecotoxicology studies to monitor environmental factors.