The Riverside fairy shrimp is a small aquatic crustacean that is generally visible in vernal pools from January through March. They have a red-colored tail and are approximately 0.5 to 1 inch in length. Females can be distinguished from males by the presence of a brood pouch that extends along the abdomen. After the vernal pools fill with water, fairy shrimp eggs that lay dormant during the dry season begin to hatch. Riverside fairy shrimp reach maturity approximately 48 to 56 days after hatching, depending on water temperature.
Vernal pools are seasonal wetlands that fill with water during fall and winter rains.
Vernal pools support a specialized ecosystem of plants, animals, and insects. A notice of availability for the draft economic analysis was published in today's Federal Register. Comments and materials received, as well as supporting documentation used in the preparation of this proposed rule, will be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal Federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The agency enforces Federal wildlife laws, administers the Endangered Species Act, manages migratory bird populations, restores nationally significant fisheries, conserves and restores wildlife habitat such as wetlands, and helps foreign governments with their conservation efforts.