Final answer:
Sea monkeys, capable of surviving in dried eggs for extended periods, are a type of brine shrimp, which is an aquatic crustacean. Brine shrimp are notable for their cryptobiotic state allowing them to endure harsh conditions, an attribute that makes them a popular novelty aquarium species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fascinating sea monkeys that can remain in a dormant state within dried eggs for years are in fact a type of brine shrimp. They belong to the category of aquatic animals called crustaceans, which encompasses a variety of species, including crabs, lobsters, crayfish, and shrimp. Specifically, sea monkeys are a hybrid or artificial variant of brine shrimp, known for their ability to undergo cryptobiosis, a state of extreme hibernation that allows them to survive in harsh environments.
Brine shrimp, like other crustaceans, play an important role in aquatic ecosystems. They are a source of food for many marine animals and are crucial in maintaining ecological balance. These tiny creatures are adaptable, able to live in the ocean and, in the case of brine shrimp, in highly saline environments as well.
The correct final answer to the question is therefore: a) Shrimp. This is supported by the given reference material that defines crustaceans and illustrates various types including shrimp. Brine shrimp are a fascinating biological subject because of their ability to survive in a dormant state for extended periods, only to be revived with the addition of water.