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 The
giant water flea gets its common name from the fact that it is the
largest water flea now found in America, growing to 1/4 inch long (3.5
mm).
The giant water flea has long spines that protect it from fish predators. The helmet is larger than those of native
species of water fleas and the tail spine is usually as long as
the body.
In
addition to its noticably long spines, the giant water flea also
has small spines, including 10 on its ventral (abdominal) side.
Water
fleas produce resting eggs with a protective coating (called an
ephippium) which survive drying and freezing.
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