Yoldiopsis

Yoldiopsis is a genus of marine bivalve molluscs belonging to the family Neilonellidae. These small clams are characterized by their ovate, equivalve shells that are typically smooth and glossy. The genus was first described in 1908 by Henry Augustus Pilsbry. Yoldiopsis species are found in various marine environments, often inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates in temperate and tropical waters worldwide. They are deposit feeders, using their siphons to draw in sediment and extract organic matter. While not commercially exploited, Yoldiopsis plays a role in the benthic ecosystem by contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for other marine organisms. The taxonomy of Yoldiopsis is based on shell morphology and anatomical features, though further research is ongoing to fully understand the diversity and evolutionary relationships within the genus. Some notable species include Yoldiopsis vallentini and Yoldiopsis peruviana. The genus's distribution and abundance can vary significantly depending on local environmental conditions and the availability of suitable habitats.