Analytical studies of the ultrastructure and movement of the spermatozoa of freshwater triclads

Fourteen phyllopod (Branchiopoda: Crustacea) species were collected from numerous temporary pools in north-eastern Natal, South Africa. Physical and chemical data for 10 pools, and results for hourly (over 41 hours) and 3-day interval (throughout periods when phyllopods were present) monitoring of 3 study pools are presented. Comparisons were made with other pools with phyllopods in Africa. The data reveal the broad tolerance to variation and extremes in both physical and chemical conditions in African temporary waterbodies. Species diversity appears to be related to pool size and vegetation. Phyllopod distribution does not follow a pattern associated with physical and chemical conditions.