Finding an endangered species of fairy shrimp in Fort Ord's vernal pools would give the pools federal protection as critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act. Development in the area would become nearly impossible, and any action that kills, harms or harasses the shrimp would invoke heavy federal penalties. Research Continues Vernal pool ecosystems have received very little study. In other parts of California, researchers have found fascinating new species of specially adapted creatures in previously unstudied vernal pools. Considering how little these ecosystems have been studied, finding a new species here on Fort Ord is not out of the realm of possibility.
Electronic meters read water pH, dissolved oxygen content, salinity, and other chemical variables.
Dramatic differences in water chemistry and diversity of plants and animals may be seen in pools separated by only a few hundred yards. Yet Fort Ord vernal pools do not suffer from a lack of biodiversity or nutrients. When vernal pools dry up in the summer and fall, a lush growth of plants replaces the pools. The seeming contradiction of high nutrient levels and high biodiversity accompanied by tea-colored water remains an intriguing topic for further research. Vernal pools' rich waters are enjoyed by a host of creatures besides fairy shrimp.