Classification:
Phylum: Rotifera
Class: Monogononta
Scientific Name: Brachionus
Class: Monogononta
Scientific Name: Brachionus
General Characteristics:
Brachionus is a pair-shaped rotifera. They are bilaterally symmetrical organisms that have more than two cell layers as well as tissues and organs. They are pseudocoelomates and possess a gut with an anus. Covering the body is an external layer of chitin referred to as lorica. The nervous system is comprised of a brain and paired nerves. Respiration is carried out through simple diffusion. Reproduction is mostly parthenogenic. They prey on bacteria and protists.
Habitat:
Brachionus lives in brackish water habitats that include inland salt waters. They are most commonly found in northern Europe, Spain, and Asia.
Importance to Humans:
Brachionus have no known importance to humans.
Sources:
Fontaneto et al. "Brachionus manjavacas". Life Desks: Marine Rotifera. Retrieved from: http://rotifera.lifedesks.org/pages/303.