Daphnia currently live in large numbers in the secondary clarification basins and contribute to the further purification of the water
Numerous Daphnia have colonized the secondary clarifier of the Griesheim wastewater treatment plant . These tiny water fleas, measuring only a few millimeters, are currently found there in large swarms and, according to the city, are finding suitable living conditions in the treated water
Daphnia are sensitive to pollutants
Daphnia are about one to five millimeters long and have a transparent shell. They typically live in ponds, pools, lakes, and ditches with high water quality. They feed on plankton and algae, which they filter from the water, thus contributing to its purification.
These small animals are also sensitive to pollutants. Their movement patterns change depending on the pollutant levels. Very slow or absent movements can therefore indicate a deterioration in water quality.
(RED/PM/Kathrin Goldmann)
