Lamineridae

Lamineridae is a family of bivalve molluscs known from the fossil record. Its precise systematic position has varied among paleontologists, and some classifications treat it as a distinct family, while others regard it as a subfamily within a broader grouping of similar shells.

Shells ascribed to Lamineridae are typically small to medium in size and display a flattened or laterally compressed form. Ornamentation can include lamellate or ribbed patterns, and the hinge is often simple with reduced teeth. Internal features such as adductor muscle scars are correspondingly simple.

Ecology: These bivalves were marine and most likely filter feeders. They inhabited shallow-subtidal environments, living in sandy or muddy substrates, and may have occurred in colonies or solitary along ancient coastlines.

Fossil record and distribution: Lamineridae fossils appear in Paleozoic to early Mesozoic sediments. Specimens have been reported from Europe, North America, and Asia, indicating a fairly wide geographic distribution in ancient seas.

Taxonomic history: Because of convergent shell forms and limited preserved soft parts, Lamineridae has been subject to revisions. Relationships to related bivalve groups remain debated, and authors differ on its rank and inclusion within higher taxa.

Genera: The family includes several described fossil genera; the type genus is cited as Lamineria in some sources, though nomenclature varies among catalogs.