Bdelloid rotifers are a class of rotifers made up of 450 distinct species. They are found in fresh water environments all over the world. In these fresh water environments they feed on bacteria and algae. Most species have all the characteristics structures of all rotifers--the cilia, the trunk, and the foot. Bdelloids are mostly free swimming and propel themselves in a worm-like manner through their fresh water environments. Despite years of research scientists have never observed a male bdelloid rotifer.

How do bdellod rotifers reproduce?

Females of this class have been observed to reproduce through parthenogenesis. Eggs in the female develop without male fertilization.

This is an example of a bdelloid rotifer. We can only assume it is a female because no males of these species have been observed.

Bdelloid rotifers are also a resilient bunch. They have developed a mechanism to allow them to survive in harsh conditions. When the bdelloids find themselves in a dry environment they undergo a process called anhidrosis. In this process, the rotifers dehydrate themselves and cover themselves in protective substances. This puts the rotifer in a dormant state. The rotifer can stay in that dormant state until the environment around it regains its moisture. When this happens, the bdelloid returns to its active state.