Eulimniidae

Eulimniidae is a family of small to medium-sized freshwater snails, aquatic gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Lymnaeoidea. The family is native to the Palearctic and Nearctic regions, with a few species found in Australia. The family was first described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1801.

The shells of Eulimniidae are typically low-spired, with a smooth or slightly ribbed surface. They are usually white or cream-colored, with a brown or reddish-brown aperture. The family includes both freshwater and semi-aquatic species, with some species capable of tolerating brackish water.

The family Eulimniidae is diverse, with over 100 species described worldwide. The taxonomy of the family is complex, with many species and subspecies recognized. Some species are known to be invasive, such as the European pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis), which has been introduced to many parts of the world outside its native range.

The biology of Eulimniidae is not well-studied, but it is known that many species are herbivorous, feeding on algae and other plant material. Some species are also known to be intermediate hosts for trematode parasites.

Eulimniidae is an important group of freshwater snails, with many species playing a role in the ecology of freshwater ecosystems. However, some species are also considered pests, such as the European pond snail, which can cause damage to aquatic plants and other organisms.