Abstract: Rotifer Brachionusplicatilis O.F.Müller,1786 as a typical saltwater species has been used as an important model organism in experimental research including physiology and ecotoxicology due to its strong adaptability to the environment and high sensitivity to poisons. This paper reviewed the mechanism of stress resistance of the rotifer, including resistance mechanism to temperature, salinity, pH, ultraviolet radiation resistance, oxidative and toxic pollutants and other stress factors. The adaptation strategies to food shortage and to predators were also introduced aiming to provide reference for the efficient cultivation and utilization of the rotifer as a model organism.