More information on the Life Cycle of Triops

Through the diapauses stage, the eggs can lay dormant for many years but once it is returned to normal conditions, the eggs will begin to hatch soon. In fact, some of these eggs can hatch in a matter of hours. In a week, the little naupilis larvae which is only about 1/20 centimeter can grow to a couple of centimeters. The growth of the Triops is highly dependent on the availability of food, sufficient oxygen levels, and proper temperature. The Triops can metabolize quickly under favorable conditions.

In order to carry out a fast growth rate, Triops need lots of food. According to studies, the Triops should consume food that is about 40% of their total body mass. In a natural setting, the Triops will not be picky since they will tend to eat whatever comes their way. As long as the food is organic and it fits their mouth perfectly, the Triops will eat them. The Triops are omnivores and so they eat both plants and animals. Aquatic micro-fauna also serves as their food like the rotifers, algae, and bacteria. The plants found in the pools are also great treats for Triops as well as the wriggling hatchlings of mosquitoes.

Some Triops also eat fellow crustaceans like the fairy shrimp or the daphnia. The Triops are voracious and they can even eat the eggs of amphibians. When the level of food drops, the Triops will tend to eat each other and this is because of the cannibalistic nature which was already mentioned earlier.

Since Triops eat almost anything, they have an incredible rate of growth. From dust-sized larval stage, the Triops will become predators in just a week. In a week or even less, the Triops will reach maturity and they will be ready to lay eggs. This is already part of their nature in coping with their natural habitat. The Triops need to reach maturity before the pool dries up so that they can leave behind a large number of eggs that can stay dormant for many years. Before the second week ends, many of the Triops will start laying their eggs.

Triops as Pets »