Rehatching and Relocation of Cladoceran Resting Eggs from Sediment Layers of Mézeshegyi Lake, Hungary

Abstract

This study investigates the viability and species composition of cladoceran resting eggs preserved in the sediment of Mézeshegyi Lake (Hungary), with particular focus on drought-affected areas. A sediment sample was collected and transferred to laboratory conditions to induce the hatching of dormant eggs. The number of successfully hatched individuals was recorded, and the emerging species were identified to assess community composition. The results provide insight into the resilience and biodiversity potential of cladoceran egg banks under environmental stress. Hatch rates and species diversity were quantitatively analyzed and compared across samples. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the applied hatching methodology was evaluated by comparing the outcomes with previously published studies from other regions. This research contributes to a better understanding of zooplankton survival strategies and offers a comparative perspective on methodological approaches used in the study of aquatic resting egg banks.