Egg production and life history of Alona guttata Sars, 1862 (Cladocera, Chydoridae): implications for colonization of temporary ponds

Abstract Cladocerans are a diverse group of species that show rapid responses to changes in environmental conditions. This adaptive capacity has important implications for egg production and life cycle, especially transitory environments such as temporary waterbodies. The present study investigated the history Alona gutatta Sars, 1862 (Crustacea, Cladocera), an abundant frequent from high-altitude pond (Lagoa Seca, Minas Gerais, Brazil). Newly hatched neonates were monitored relation time maturation, number eggs produced per female survival. Neonates required mean 8 days mature. A. guttata survived 30.9 ± 8.1 2 brood, generating 10.95 6.41 during entire cycle. development, short produce long cycle adaptations adverse conditions aquatic environments, which can contribute colonization ecosystems.