The Diversity of Crustacea in Baikal

Melnik Natalia

Semitransparent predator macrohectopus and tiny fastidious epishura can be considered as “first-magnitude stars” in the ensemble of Baikal endemic fishes.

Baikal depths resemble much the ocean depths. The lake is inhabited by amazing animals that continue to amaze researchers. Small crayfish epishura, the dominating species of Baikal zooplankton that until recent has been considered as a basic “indicator” of the cleanliness of the Baikal water, is often mentioned in popular literature.

Unfortunately, another endemic Crustacea, macrohectopus, is mentioned undeservedly seldom. In full face it reminds the character from the famous American film “Predator” and is the only one among all freshwater amphipods who has chosen to live in the great depths of the lake. Irkutsk limnologist Natalia Melnik describes little-known details in mysterious behavior and biology of the unique Crustacea.

More information on these and other subjects you can find in the printed version of our journal.