The Tadpole Shrimp is a living fossil: It has not changed its appearance since the triassic age 220 millions of years ago. It can be recognised by its flattened shield that covers legs and head. 'Triops' means "three eyes": Tadpole shrimps have two internal compound eyes plus the larval nauplius eye. Triops' eggs can survive dormant for a long time. In many parts river regulation has destroyed its main habitats: temporary floodplain ponds. Due to the former border situation in the Morava floodplain there still is a survivable population.
Images: Walter Hoedl