Wednesday, January 25, 2006

It lives!

I'm stunned. We didn't kill the little critters.

We've spotted two living triops so far. Betsy was the first to find one though "find" is a weak word here, belying her dedication to her post. Her patience in poring over the tank was admirable. I checked several times today, but not once had the perseverance to stand guard as she did, hawk-like and ready to leap with glee at the discovery of life, announcing to all that "It's swimming! I saw one swimming!"

These miniscule creatures aren't easy to spot (though they apparently can grow to two inches long if properly -- or would that be improperly? -- gorged.) Right now, just 24 hours after sprinkling (what was left of) the eggs in the tank, they're no bigger than pinpoints, but they are certainly mobile little things, bustling about in their restless yet industrious-looking way. I'm fascinated.

Check out the Triops website to see more about them.

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