Bdelloidea

rotifer subclass

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Bdelloidea is a subclass of rotifers, which are microscopic aquatic invertebrates. These tiny creatures are known for their unique reproductive strategy: they reproduce exclusively through parthenogenesis, meaning females produce offspring from unfertilized eggs, and males have never been observed. This asexual reproduction has been ongoing for at least 40 million years.12

Bdelloid rotifers inhabit both freshwater and terrestrial environments. They move by swimming using a ciliated disk or by creeping, similar to a leech, by attaching their head and tail ends alternately to a surface.12

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rotifer
…the swimming rotifers, some (subclass Bdelloidea) loop along the bottom of ponds, alternately attaching the head and tail ends; others remain anchored by means of tubes or cases of jelly attached to the bottom.
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…the swimming rotifers, some (subclass Bdelloidea) loop along the bottom of ponds, alternately attaching the head and tail ends; others remain anchored by means of tubes or cases of jelly attached to the bottom.
Read More