These organisms are found widely in aquatic environments and exhibit a rapid growth rate compared to other zooplankton species. They possess a high ingestion rate, making them valuable in aquaculture settings. Their size is suitable for feeding fish larvae and for cultivation in small volumes. They play a significant role in energy transfer and nutrient cycling within ecosystems. They are easy to cultivate due to their short generation time and can thrive on various food sources such as phytoplankton, bacteria, and inert substances. Additionally, they can serve as carriers, transferring administered substances to other organisms. Their life cycle is complex, involving both asexual and sexual reproduction, allowing for the production of genetically identical individuals (clones) and the formation of cysts for storage, which can be utilized as needed.