Ilyocryptidae

Genus Guides

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Ilyocryptidae is a of small freshwater crustaceans in the order Diplostraca (cladocerans). The family contains the single Ilyocryptus, comprising benthic found in lakes, , and wetlands across multiple continents. Members are characterized by incomplete moulting and lack of a keel. Several species are widespread, though some are relatively rare with restricted distributions.

Ilyocryptidae by no rights reserved, uploaded by Ken Kneidel. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ilyocryptidae: //ˌɪlioʊˈkrɪptɪˌdeɪ//

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Identification

Members of Ilyocryptidae can be distinguished from other cladoceran by incomplete moulting, absence of a keel, and specific structures of the antennule, thoracic limb I, and postabdomen. The sarsi-group share these diagnostic features. Species-level identification requires examination of thoracic limb and postabdominal armature.

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Habitat

Freshwater benthic environments including lakes, , wetlands, and wet campos. occupy and bottom sediments.

Distribution

Widespread across multiple continents: South America (Brazil, with records from São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Maranhão, Pará, Amazonas, and Federal District), Australia, East Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Central China, Japan, South Korea), and Far East Russia. Distribution patterns fit transitional zones between and Tropical provinces.

Seasonality

Activity observed during rainy season in Brazilian wet campos.

Life Cycle

Incomplete moulting has been observed.

Behavior

Benthic lifestyle similar among .

Ecological Role

Ilyocryptus spinifer is among the most common cladocerans in the Neotropics; other occur significantly less frequently.

Sources and further reading