Streptocephalus henridumontis

Irving P.
Oct 1, 2023
2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Taxonomy and Classification

• Phylum: Arthropoda

• Class: Branchiopoda

• Order: Anostraca

• Family: Streptocephalidae

• Genus: Streptocephalus

• Species: S. henridumontis

• Authority: Maeda-Martínez & Obregón-Barboza, 2005

Streptocephalus henridumontis, commonly known as Dumont's fairy shrimp, belongs to the order Anostraca and the family Streptocephalidae. First described in the late 20th century, this species is notable for its relatively large size—reaching up to 15 mm—and its adaptation to warm, ephemeral freshwater habitats.

It thrives in temporary pools, stock tanks, and playas that form in arid and semi-arid regions. These habitats are typically cloudy and warm, with fluctuating water levels and limited permanence, making them ideal for species with rapid life cycles and drought-resistant eggs.

The distribution of S. henridumontis is restricted to parts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Documented populations occur in northwest Mexico, Arizona, and Hidalgo County in southern New Mexico

The characteristics outlined below may exhibit variations influenced by environmental conditions, population dynamics, and the organism's age.

IDENTIFIABLE TRAITS OF THIS SPECIES

Male Second Antenna:

In Streptocephalus, species-level identification is primarily based on the morphological differentiation of the male second antennae, which function as clasping organs during copulation. These antennae exhibit species-specific variation in structure, including differences in segmentation, curvature, presence of distal lobes, spines, and frontal appendages. The configuration of these features is highly conserved within species and serves as a reliable diagnostic character in taxonomic keys.