Odysseylla

Odysseylla is a genus of small, freshwater snails, aquatic gastropod mollusks in the family Hydrobiidae. The genus was first described by German malacologist Karl Heinrich Rosenbusch in 1971. Species within the genus Odysseylla are characterized by their small size, typically measuring less than 2 millimeters in length, and their distinctive shell morphology. The shell is typically low-spired, with a smooth or slightly ribbed surface, and a narrow aperture.

Odysseylla species are found in various freshwater habitats, including streams, rivers, and ponds. They are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including changes in water temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels. This adaptability has contributed to their widespread distribution across Europe and Asia.

The genus Odysseylla includes several species, with the most well-known being Odysseylla balthica, which is found in freshwater habitats across Europe. Other species include Odysseylla hungarica, found in Hungary, and Odysseylla hungarica, found in China.

Odysseylla species play an important role in freshwater ecosystems, serving as a food source for various aquatic predators. They also contribute to the cycling of nutrients in freshwater environments. Despite their ecological importance, Odysseylla species are not well-studied, and more research is needed to fully understand their biology and ecology.