Adaptive changes in morphology of Daphnia filter appendages in response to food stress

Morphological adaptations of Daphnia filtration apparatus in response to unsuitable food conditions are examined and set against earlier published data. To maximize food gathering under limiting food conditions, Daphnia can respond morphologically by plastic changes in the size and structure of its filter apparatus. Under low food quantity and/or poor quality, the area of Daphnia filter screen increases and the mesh size decreases.