Native invertebrate recovery centre
Tadpole Shrimp (Triops cancriformis)
The tadpole shrimp is often called a “living fossil,” with a lineage stretching back at least 220 million years. These extraordinary crustaceans are found in ephemeral freshwater or slightly brackish pools that dry seasonally. Such habitats prevent predators from establishing, giving Triops a unique survival advantage.
At Wildwood Trust, we are breeding, researching, and protecting this species as part of our Native Invertebrate Recovery Centre, in collaboration with Ian Hughes (Lifeforms Art), BIAZA, and Restore Nature.
Quick facts
Ancient lineage: ≥220 million years (a true “living fossil”)
Rapid life cycle: Matures in just 2–3 weeks
Hearty appetite: Consumes up to ~40% of body mass daily
Egg survival strategy: Some hatch immediately, while others enter diapause and may survive for up to 27 years, enduring extreme heat, cold, saltwater immersion, and even digestion.
Habitat & life history
Tadpole shrimp thrive in temporary freshwater or slightly brackish pools that dry out seasonally. These ephemeral habitats reduce predator numbers, helping Triops survive where other species cannot.
Triops mature in just 2–3 weeks, feeding on invertebrates, plants, and sediment. They grow rapidly, fuelled by a huge appetite. Their eggs employ a survival strategy: some hatch immediately, while others remain dormant (diapause), surviving extreme conditions for decades.
UK status & threats to survival
Classified as Endangered in the UK
Legally protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Found in only two known UK sites: The New Forest (Hampshire), and near the Solway Firth at Caerlaverock, Scotland
Threats:
Habitat degradation
Loss of grazing (vital for pond health)
Climate change and drought
Pollution
Predators and invasive plants
Veterinary chemicals from livestock (e.g. avermectins)
Maintaining traditional grazing is critical to keeping ponds healthy for Triops populations.
Our conservation work
Wildwood Trust is working with Ian Hughes (Entomologist, Lifeforms Art), BIAZA, and Restore Nature to:
Captive breed tadpole shrimp
Research their ecology and biology
Develop conservation actions to protect and restore populations
This work forms part of the Native Invertebrate Recovery Centre Project.
Photo credit: Ian Hughes