Conochilus (colonial rotifer)
Conochilus spp. · Aquatic life
Under the microscope · Photo: CC0
Also called Conochilus hippocrepis, Conochilus unicornis, Colonial rotifer
How to identify Conochilus (colonial rotifer)
- Rotifers grouped in round, jelly ball colonies that can be seen by eye in a jar
- Colonies roll slowly through the water like tiny clear beads
- Each individual is joined at the foot in the center of the ball
- Labs may count colonies or individuals
Similar species
Colonial green algae like Volvox are also rolling balls but are bright green; Conochilus colonies are clear to whitish.
Profile
| Season | Mostly late spring and summer. |
|---|---|
| Depth | Open water |
| How it spreads or reproduces | Colonies grow by cloning and break apart; resting eggs survive drying |
| Habitat | Open water of lakes, reservoirs and larger ponds. |
Why it matters in a lake
A filter feeder on small algae and bacteria. Living in colonies helps protect it from small predators.
Where it is found
- Idaho: Occasional
- Oregon: Occasional
- Wyoming: Occasional
Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Rotifera |
| Class | Eurotatoria |
| Order | Flosculariaceae |
| Family | Conochilidae |
| Scientific name | Conochilus spp. |
Keratella (spined rotifer)
Polyarthra (feather rotifer)
Brachionus (rotifer)
Asplanchna (sac rotifer)
Kellicottia (long spine rotifer)
Filinia (bristle rotifer)
Synchaeta (cold water rotifer)
Trichocerca (rat tail rotifer)
Lecane (flat rotifer)
Euchlanis (glass rotifer)Need a hand?
Found it in your lake?
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Idaho / Wyoming (208) 501-4531Oregon (541) 280-0596