Enterogona

Enterogona is a genus of small, freshwater snails, aquatic gastropod mollusks in the family Hydrobiidae. The genus is native to Europe and North America, with a few species also found in Asia. Enterogona species are characterized by their small size, typically measuring less than 2 millimeters in length, and their semi-transparent shells. The shell is usually ovate or oval in shape, with a smooth surface and a distinct aperture.

The genus Enterogona was first described by the German zoologist Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Mehlis in 1845. The name Enterogona is derived from the Greek words "enteron," meaning "intestine," and "gonos," meaning "seed" or "offspring," reflecting the snails' small size and reproductive characteristics.

Enterogona species are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and other plant material. They are often found in slow-moving or still waters, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. The snails are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce sexually, with the male and female organs functioning simultaneously.

Enterogona species are of interest to scientists studying the evolution of small-sized organisms and the ecology of freshwater ecosystems. They are also sometimes kept as aquarium pets due to their small size and relatively hardy nature. However, their small size and limited mobility make them vulnerable to predation and environmental changes.