Artemia salina
Artemia salina, commonly known as brine shrimp, is a small crustacean found in saltwater environments, particularly in salt lakes and coastal lagoons. They are known for their ability to thrive in high salinity conditions, which makes them unique among aquatic organisms. Brine shrimp are often used as a food source for fish and other aquatic animals in aquaculture and aquarium settings.
These tiny creatures can grow up to 1 inch long and have a distinctive pink or reddish color due to the presence of carotenoids. Artemia salina can reproduce both sexually and asexually, allowing them to quickly populate their habitats. Their eggs, known as cysts, can remain dormant for years, hatching when conditions become favorable.