Tardigrada

.The chapter reports the following data about classification and ecology of Tardigrada of North America: Evolution, Major Morphological Taxonomic Characters (Claws, Buccal-Pharyngeal Apparatus, Cuticle,. Eggs), Anatomy, Digestive System, Other Anatomical Systems, Latent States (Cryptobiosis, Diapause), Reproduction and Development (Sexual Conditions, Reproductive Apparatus, Sexual Dimorphism, Gametogenesis and Gametes, Mating and Fertilization, Reproductive Modes, Eggs and Parental Care, Development, Post-Embryonic Development), Ecology ( Molting, Life History, Cyclomorphosis, Habitats, Population Dynamics, Trophic Relationships, Biogeography, Dispersal), Techniques, Collection, Extraction, Microscopy, Culturing, Molecular Analyses for Determining Tardigrade Phylogeny and Species Identification, Identification, Taxonomic Key to Genera of Freshwater and Terrestrial Tardigrada.