Definition of Brine shrimp

Brine shrimp are species of aquatic crustaceans of the genus Artemia, the only genus in the family Artemiidae of the order Anostraca (fairy shrimp, not closely related to true shrimp). Brine Shrimp have existed since the Triassic period of the Earth's existence, and have evolved little since. They are found worldwide in saltwater, though not in oceans. Artemia is a well known genus as one variety, sometimes identified as a new species, Artemia nyos, or otherwise as simply a cultivated subspecies of Artemia salina, is sold as novelty gifts, most commonly under the marketing name Sea-Monkeys.