Galeommatidae

Galeommatidae is a family of minute, thin-shelled bivalve molluscs. These small clams are often found living in association with other marine invertebrates, a phenomenon known as commensalism. They typically inhabit soft sediments, such as sand or mud, and are widely distributed in marine environments globally, from tropical to temperate waters.

The shells of Galeommatidae are generally ovate and smooth, though sculpturing can vary. Their small size, often less than 10 millimeters, makes them easily overlooked. Many species are characterized by their ability to burrow rapidly into the substrate. Their diet consists of plankton and organic detritus filtered from the water column.

The symbiotic relationships of Galeommatidae are a key feature of the family. They are known to associate with a variety of hosts, including echinoderms like sea cucumbers and starfish, as well as polychaete worms and crustaceans. In these relationships, the clam often lives within or attached to the host, benefiting from protection or a stable environment while not significantly harming the host. Reproduction in Galeommatidae typically involves external fertilization, with larval stages that are planktonic before settling to find a suitable host.