The results of an investigation carried out during August 2000 to July 2002 on different species of Brachionus in nine selected stations along Cochin backwater system in the southwest coast of India are reported in this paper. A total of 13 species of Brachionus viz . Brachionus plicatilis, B.rotundifonnis,B .angularis, B.urceolaris, B.rubens, B.calyciflorus, B.caudatus. B.fatcarus, Blforficula, B.quadridentatus, B.patu1u.s. B.bidmtata and B.ntirabilis were recorded from this area for the first time. The detailed descriptions and photographs of each species are presented.

Rotifer, Brachionus, Cochin backwaters