Lyocellista

Lyocellista is a genus of small, freshwater snails with a gill and an operculum, an external shell. It is a member of the family Lymnaeidae, the pond snails. The genus was first described by the French zoologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1801. Lyocellista species are typically found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. They are known for their distinctive shell shape, which is often elongated and spiral in form. The genus includes several species, each with its own unique characteristics and distribution. Lyocellista species play a role in the ecosystem by serving as a food source for various predators, including birds and fish. They also contribute to the nutrient cycling in their aquatic environments. The genus is of interest to both scientists and hobbyists due to its ecological significance and the aesthetic appeal of its members.