Neonateilla

Neonateilla is a genus of small, freshwater snails, aquatic gastropod mollusks in the family Hydrobiidae. The genus was first described by German malacologist Karl Friedrich Hermann in 1804. The name "Neonateilla" is derived from the Greek words "neos" meaning new, and "ateilla" referring to the shape of the shell.

Species within the genus Neonateilla are characterized by their small, conical shells with a smooth surface and a distinct, rounded apex. The shell is typically translucent, allowing the internal anatomy to be visible. The genus is found in various freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Neonateilla species are known for their ability to survive in a wide range of environmental conditions, making them adaptable to different freshwater ecosystems.

The biology of Neonateilla species is not well-studied, but they are believed to feed on algae and other microscopic organisms. Reproduction in Neonateilla involves the release of eggs and sperm into the water, where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic, drifting in the water column until they settle and metamorphose into adult snails.

Neonateilla is a relatively small genus, with only a few described species. The most well-known species is Neonateilla parva, which is found in Europe. Other species include Neonateilla borysthenica, found in the Dnieper River basin in Ukraine, and Neonateilla hungarica, found in Hungary.

The conservation status of Neonateilla species varies. Some species are considered vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts for Neonateilla species focus on protecting and restoring freshwater habitats, as well as monitoring population trends to ensure the long-term survival of these small, freshwater snails.