General: Tadpole Shrimp (Triops newberryi) are small crustaceans that start out very small and grow to about 3 inches. Young tadpole shrimp look like miniature adults. Tadpole Shrimp are recognized by their broad shell (carapace) and long, stout tail, all of which makes them look like horseshoe crabs from the seashore. Tadpole Shrimp in the genus Triops also have two, long caudal extensions, which is not the case in the other genus (Lepidurus) in the Triopsidae.

Tadpole Shrimp live in temporary pools (i.e., dry lakes, vernal pools, tinajas) in the southwestern United States. Elsewhere, certain species also live in brackish and saline waters.

Tadpole shrimp feed on detritus (decaying organic matter).

Taxonomy: Order Notostraca, Family Triopsidae, two genera.

Tadpole Shrimp hatch, mature, and mate before their vernal pool dries up. Females lay eggs (actually cysts) that can survive for several years in the sand or dried mud during hot summers. When the water comes back, the eggs hatch, and the cycle starts again.

Tadpole shrimp share their habitat with clam shrimp, fairy shrimp, midge larvae, and other tiny creatures, but they also eat their own.

Please be careful around tinajas and vernal pools so as not to damage the habitat or injure the creatures that live in them. Don't wash in tinajas because soap will hurt the wildlife.