Brine shrimp have officially become a symbol of Utah! On March 17, 2023, Governor Spencer Cox signed a bill designating the brine shrimp as the state crustacean, recognizing its ecological and economic importance.
What Are Brine Shrimp?
Brine shrimp are tiny crustaceans that thrive in salty waters worldwide. In Utah, they are found exclusively in the Great Salt Lake, where they play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Economic Impact of Brine Shrimp
Brine shrimp produce cysts (dormant eggs), which are harvested and sold as food for fish and farmed shrimp. This industry generates millions of dollars annually, with Utah’s Great Salt Lake providing over 40% of the global brine shrimp supply. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources carefully manages the population to maintain ecological balance.
A Key Food Source for Migratory Birds
The Great Salt Lake is a crucial habitat for nearly 10 million migratory birds, including over 330 species. Many of these birds depend on brine shrimp as a food source to sustain their long journeys.
The Role of Brine Shrimp in the Ecosystem
Brine shrimp help control algae levels in the Great Salt Lake. While adult shrimp die off in winter, their cysts survive and hatch in the spring, continuing the cycle of life.
“The importance of brine shrimp in the Great Salt Lake ecosystem can’t be overstated,” said John Luft, Program Manager of the Great Salt Lake Ecosystem. “We’re excited to see them recognized as Utah’s state crustacean.”
