Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Triops laying eggs in a mud puddle

Triops (Notostraca, or tadpole shrimp) occur naturally in mud puddles in parts of southern Arizona. In a good rainy season, they can often be found in the San Pedro National Riparian Conservation Area. This one was especially interesting because it was creating little depressions in the mud and laying eggs.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Palominas, Arizona, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Copyright: © Amadee Ricketts