Adaptations of Anomopoda crustaceans (Cladocera) to the benthic mode of life

Crustaceans of the order Anomopoda inhabit both pelagic and littoral zones of fresh water bodies. Different adaptations to the benthic mode of life in representatives of different families and genera of this order are described. They include incomplete molting, the presence of a mucous film on the body surface, protection of the head from frontal damage, large lateral projections on the valves and additional sculpture on the head and valves, well-developed lateral armature of the postabdomen, the presence of projections on the postabdomen preanal margin, specialization of setae and spines of the second antenna, especially large exopodites on limbs IV and V, a reduced compound eye, and a large, well-developed ocellus. Similar adaptations to the benthic mode of life in the Anomopoda and Ostracoda are discussed.