Triops Newberryi

Triops newberryi: How to Successfully Breed this American Triops

Triops newberryi is a species of Triops found on the west coast of North America, primarily in the valleys of Washington, Oregon, and California. It is also found in parts of Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Mexico, with an isolated population reported in Kansas. In California, it is particularly abundant in the Coachella Valley.

This crustacean measures between 4 and 6 cm as an adult, sometimes up to 9 cm including its tail, and is distinguished by a dark brown marbled shell on a light background, giving it a characteristic tiger-striped appearance. It prefers warm waters, with an optimal temperature between 27 and 31°C, which accelerates its metabolism but limits its lifespan to approximately 50 to 70 days.

The Triops newberryi reproduces primarily by hermaphroditism, with each individual able to self-fertilize its eggs, although males exist in some populations for occasional sexual reproduction.

An active and agile swimmer, it feeds on microorganisms, organic debris, and mosquito larvae, making it useful for biological control of these insects. To keep it in good condition, it is necessary to maintain a high temperature using a heating system and provide an aquarium of at least 5 liters for a few individuals.

• Size: 5 to 7 cm
• Lifespan: 50 to 70 days
• Ideal temperature: between 27 and 30°C

Triops newberryi is rarer in captivity than Triops cancriformis and Triops longicaudatus, making it a lesser-known species, but also more sought-after by enthusiasts.