Morphology-Based Identification of Rotifers for Sustainable Aquaculture

Abstract

Rotifers are microscopic zooplankton that play a crucial role as live feed in aquaculture, particularly during the early developmental stages of fish and crustaceans. Their small size, high nutritional value, ease of digestion, and rapid reproductive capacity make them an ideal food source for larvae, fry, and fingerlings. Accurate identification of rotifer species is essential for their effective utilization and for advancing ecological and taxonomic studies. Although molecular techniques such as DNA barcoding have gained importance, morphological identification remains a simple, cost-effective, and widely used approach. The present study focuses on the morphological classification and identification of rotifers belonging to the phylum Rotifera. Detailed taxonomic keys have been developed based on distinguishing morphological features including body shape, lorica structure, corona, mastax, and trophi types. The classification hierarchy comprises major groups including Monogononta and Bdelloidea, along with their respective orders, families, genera, and species. Identification keys are provided for several important taxa, including genera such as Brachionus, Keratella, Lecane, Trichocerca, and Asplanchna. This work serves as a comprehensive guide for the identification of rotifer species using morphological characteristics, which can facilitate taxonomic studies, biodiversity assessments, and aquaculture practices.