Because the same MF hormone affects a broad range of crustaceans, any insecticide that mimics MF also may affect a large number of species in freshwater communities. |
Breeding studies with both males and females often are necessary to identify candidate genes responsible for certain genetic traits. If we want to understand, for example, the genetic basis for why some clones of Daphnia from lakes are more resistant to pollution, then having males could help to find the genes in the genome. |
Most fresh-water fish eat water fleas at some point in their lives. They are an important food source for fish. |
We need to know the species identities in order to understand how freshwater communities are changing over time, as a response to climate change, pollution or invasive species. We're hoping that by studying the biology of the rare males, we can learn more about species diversity and freshwater ecosystem changes. |