Branchipodidae

/ˌbræŋkɪˈpɑːdɪdeɪ/ noun

Definition

A family of small crustaceans with branched legs used for swimming, including fairy shrimp and brine shrimp.

Etymology

From Greek branchia (gill) + pous (foot) + the taxonomic suffix -idae, literally meaning 'gill-footed' creatures.

Kelly Says

Brine shrimp (Branchipodidae) can survive in the harshest salt lakes on Earth and even in space—scientists use them to test how life could survive on other planets!

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