Order Anostraca is a scientific nomenclature that refers to a subphylum of aquatic crustaceans commonly known as fairy shrimp. The term 'anostraca' originates from Greek, meaning "dull shrimp". Synonyms for Order Anostraca include the Cladocera family, freshwater Cladocerans, and branchiopods. These synonyms are used interchangeably as they refer to the same type of crustaceans, small aquatic organisms that belong to the phylum Arthropoda. Fairy shrimp are characterized by a flattened body, leaf-like appendages, and a unique reproductive cycle. These species of crustaceans have been around for over 300 million years and provide a significant contribution to the biodiversity of freshwaters worldwide.