Barton Springs Pool swimmers find tiny creatures. What are they?

AUSTIN (KXAN) — After a swim at Barton Springs Pool, some swimmers found small shrimp-like organisms on their clothes after getting out of the pool.

A viewer sent KXAN photos of the critters. After a bit of research, they determined the creatures were amphipods—a food source for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander .

Are amphipods normal to see at Barton Springs?

The city’s Watershed Protection Department said there are no concerns about the number of amphipods at Barton Springs Pool. They are one of the most abundant organisms found in the pool and the nearby springs and creeks.

The department said the populations increase with abundant plant growth, which give amphipods habitat and resources.

Are they harmful?

No. The city department said amphipods cannot harm or bite swimmers.

They also do not intentionally attach to humans, but they can be seen on clothes or boating equipment because of their high densities in parts of Barton Springs, Barton Creek and Lady Bird Lake.

People should rinse off after swimming if they are concerned about amphipods on clothing, the Watershed Protection Department said.

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