Distribution of two species of Anostraca: Branchipodopsis affinis and Branchinecta orientalis (Crustacea) in Bazargan area, Maku

Large branchiopods have a worldwide distribution, occurring in some of the most remote places on earth. Like the global level, the patterns of diversity, distribution and conservation status of these taxa are still poorly known. In this respect, a study was conducted on distribution and status of large branchiopod crustaceans in the Bazargan area, Maku, West Azerbaijan, during the spring 2015. Two Anostracans species were collected, including Branchinecta orientalis and Branchipodopsis affinis.The B. orientalis have been reported previously in neighbouring area of Iran, however B. affinis is reported for first time. From the collected data it is easy to deduce that local ecological parameters are the main factors for the diversity and distribution of anostracan species within the local and regional scale. The Anostracan species in the studied area are threatened by the loss and degradation of their temporary aquatic habitats owing to drainage, agriculture and salinization. These negative effects have been aggravated due to the prolonged drought throughout the country