Ophryssuvusta

Ophryssuvusta is a genus of minute freshwater snails with an operculum, or shell lid, aquatic gastropod mollusks, specifically a freshwater snail in the family Bithyniidae.

These snails are typically found in various freshwater environments, including rivers, streams, and ponds, in regions such as Europe. Ophryssuvusta snails are often found in environments with slow-moving to stagnant water and soft to firm substrates.

The shells of these snails are usually rounded, with diameters of approximately 0.5 to 1.5 millimeters, making them very small. The shell is often characterized by a light brown to creamy color with darker blotches, and has a distinctive insertion of the head of the snail within the operculum.

Ophryssuvusta snails are specialized in feeding on algae and biofilm. They use their radulae, which are highly specialized feeding structures, to scrape algae from surfaces.

The geographical distribution of these snails is not well-documented, but they appear to be native to Europe. Ophryssuvusta snails are unlikely to be found in aquariums, except in very specialized setups designed to mimic their natural environment.

Ophryssuvusta species are not considered to be threatened or endangered, and are generally considered to be of little concern. However, it is essential to note that the endemic and specifically adapted nature of these snails makes them critical components of their ecosystems.