D. studeri lives in oligotrophic freshwater and slightly brackish lakes in Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands.

[4][5] D. studeri lives in freshwater and slightly saline lakes in Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands.

[6] Other species in Daphnia mostly live in salt lakes, and it is likely D. studeri historically migrated from saltwater back to freshwater.

[6][1] The overwintering females have large lipid reserves, which is thought to help them survive in the seasons of low productivity.

More eggs are produced in lakes which have been enriched by bird or seal feces, allowing for higher algae production.