What are freshwater bryozoans?

Freshwater bryozoans are small, aquatic invertebrates belonging to the phylum Bryozoa, primarily found in freshwater environments like lakes, ponds, and rivers. They form colony structures composed of numerous individual zooids, which are typically only a few millimeters in size. These colonies can be encrusting or branching and play a role in aquatic ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitat for other organisms. Freshwater bryozoans contribute to biodiversity and can serve as indicators of environmental health.