Monetta

Monetta is a genus of small, ovate, freshwater snails belonging to the family Planorbidae, commonly known as ramshorn snails. These snails are characterized by their flattened, coiled shells, which typically coil in a single plane. The shell's whorls are often broad and flat, giving the snail a somewhat disc-like appearance.

Species within the Monetta genus are found in various freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. They are often associated with aquatic vegetation, where they graze on algae and detritus. Monetta snails are hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.

The genus Monetta includes several species, though taxonomic classifications can vary among researchers. Identification often relies on detailed examination of shell morphology, including the number of whorls, shell aperture shape, and umbilicus. While not as commonly encountered as some other freshwater snail genera, Monetta plays a role in its ecosystem by contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for other aquatic organisms. Their presence can be an indicator of the health of a freshwater environment.