How to Get a Hydra Pet

Named for a multi-headed snake in Greek mythology, the hydra is a tiny, freshwater creature that attaches its base to vegetation, allowing its stinging tentacles to flow freely and catch small crustaceans. Hydras are members of the Cnidaria phylum, along with other primitive, aquatic invertebrates such as sea anemones and jellyfish. They are easy to catch, require little care and are readily available in lakes and ponds.

Things You'll Need

  • Clear jar
  • Magnifying glass
  • Plankton net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit your local pond and fill a clear jar with pond water.

    • 2

      Add small twigs, pond vegetation and rocks to the water.

    • 3

      Examine the twigs, vegetation and rocks for the presence of hydras, using a magnifying glass if necessary. Hydras are soft-bodied, with a symmetrical, tree-like appearance. Their bases anchor onto rocks and plants, while their narrow, branchlike tentacles sway freely in the water. If you don't see a hydra in your jar, replace your twigs, vegetation and rocks and keep examining them until you find one. It is difficult to detect hydras in pond water alone; you'll have better luck trying to spot them on vegetation in the clear jar.

    • 4

      Dip a plankton net into the pond to catch tiny crustaceans for the hydra to eat. Add these to your jar. Return to the pond regularly to catch additional crustaceans for food. Store a bulk supply in a separate jar if desired.

    • 5

      Keep the jars with the hydra and crustaceans uncovered in a warm place out of direct sunlight. Change the water in both jars with freshly collected pond water every few weeks. Never use tap water; it contains chlorine that could kill your hydra and crustaceans.