REVIEW OF THE BIOGEOGRAPHY OF THE GENUS ARTEMIA (CRUSTACEA, ANOSTRACA)

In this study, we report on the known Artemia habitats worldwide. Rece nt literature information is incorporated about the taxonomic status o f the various populations studied. The genus is composed of di-, tri-, tetra- and pentaploid parthenogenetic populations and of the followin g bisexual species: A. franciscana franciscana, A. franciscana monica, A. franciscana sp., A. persimilis, A. salina, A. urmiana, A. sinica a nd A. sp. from Kazakhstan. The problems of characterizing new brine sh rimp populations are discussed. In view of the great importance of Art emia as part of the live food chain for the culture of fish and shellf ish larvae and the present cyst shortage from the market, the need for commercial exploitation and development of new Artemia sources is now , more than ever, necessary.