Biogeography of rotifers

The biogeography of rotifers is discussed in light of general biogeographical concepts. It is argued that, in spite of considerable abilities for passive dispersal, vicariance can develop well in this group. Examples selected from the Branchionidae illustrate the high levels of endemicity found in Australia and South America, while the Indian subcontinent and Africa have a predominantly cosmopolitan fauna. An explanation for these patterns is found in drifting continents and Pleistocene climatic changes.