Blemmilias

Blemmilias is a genus of small, freshwater snails with a gill and an operculum, an external shell. They are endemic to New Zealand and are found in various freshwater habitats, including streams, rivers, and lakes. The genus was first described by Powell in 1933, and it includes several species, with Blemmilias tenuis being the most well-known.

Blemmilias snails are characterized by their small size, typically measuring less than 10 millimeters in length. They have a thin, translucent shell with a smooth or slightly ridged surface. The operculum is also small and translucent, covering the aperture of the shell when the snail is not active.

The diet of Blemmilias snails consists primarily of algae and detritus, which they scrape from rocks and other surfaces using their radula. They are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs, although they typically do not self-fertilize.

Blemmilias snails play an important role in their ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and providing food for other aquatic organisms. They are also of interest to scientists studying the evolution and ecology of freshwater mollusks. However, their small size and limited range make them vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental changes. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique and fascinating creatures.