Threatened species of Rotifera

Rotifers are multicellular microscopic organisms which are typically 0.1 to 1mm long and are found in a variety of aquatic habitats. They are a popular subject for the amateur microscopist because of their wonderful variety of form, habits and life cycle. Over 1500 species have been described. Wide spread in distribution, they are common orgsnisms in fresh water, and forming zooplankton are important in nutrint recycling in aquatic systems. Also there are some marine species and few others live in mosses. Most are solitary, free swimming or crawling animals, but also there are sessiles and colonial species.

Many rotifers are filter-feeders...feeding on a variety of particles. Others use modified buccal area to trap small animals.