Why do some anomopods produce males when food becomes scarce?

Anomopods produce males and engage in bisexual reproduction when food becomes scarce or environmental conditions change as a survival strategy.12

Under favorable conditions, these branchiopods reproduce through parthenogenesis, where females produce offspring without fertilization. However, when food is limited or temperatures shift, some eggs develop into males, and females begin producing eggs that require fertilization.12

These fertilized eggs are highly resistant to harsh environmental conditions, such as freezing or drought, and can remain dormant until favorable conditions return. This process ensures the survival of the species during periods of stress, as the dormant eggs—often referred to as resting eggs—can withstand environments that would otherwise be fatal to the population.12