Calanoida sp. (unidentified)
Tiny filter-feeding crustaceans that swim through the open water column of the Freshwater Lake in characteristic jerky bursts, this group expanded visibly after the removal of the Flagfish and now forms part of the microcrustacean layer transferring suspended algal energy up the food web.
Freshwater copepods were observed throughout the water column by 2026-04-13 and again in close-up swimming footage on 2026-04-16 after Flagfish removal reduced predation pressure. Treat this Calanoida node as an order-level public graph participant, not proof of order-specific abundance, reproduction, or observed feeding by calanoids alone.
Primary Consumer. Grazes suspended algae, phytoplankton, and fine organic particles in the open water column. Population expansion after Flagfish removal (April 5, 2026) linked to improved lake water clarity, consistent with phytoplankton grazing reducing suspended algal load. No direct feeding behavior observed in miniBIOTA; trophic role is based on order-level biology.
Generally hardy, but more sensitive to low oxygen and water quality drops than benthic copepods. Extremely sensitive to copper and chemical water treatments.
They breed continuously in the open water. The absence of a fish predator has allowed their swimming larvae to develop successfully in the water column without being eaten.
They act as essential water filters and nutrient converters. By consuming microscopic floating algae, they help keep the water clear and convert algae energy into high-protein animal biomass for larger creatures.
Follow this species across the habitats where it currently appears in the miniBIOTA biosphere.
