Freshwater lakes and ponds support many species of aquatic and land animals. Some aquatic animals swim freely in the water; others live along the bottom. Many land animals, such as opossums, raccoons, and deer, visit lakes and ponds for food and water.

Although few species of animals live in the waters of salt and soda lakes, those that do provide food for birds and other animals. Ducks and wading birds, for example, feed on the microscopic brine shrimp that flourish in these lakes. Because these types of lakes are usually found in desert areas, they may be the only source of food for many miles.

Microorganisms

Microorganisms cannot be seen by the human eye without the use of a microscope. Those found in ponds and lakes include transparent daphnia, creatures that catch food with the hairs on their legs, rotifers that sweep algae into their mouths...