lamellista

A lamellista is a small, often microscopic, marine invertebrate belonging to the phylum Mollusca. These organisms are characterized by their flattened bodies and a shell that is also typically very thin and delicate, often resembling a tiny, translucent leaf or scale. The name "lamellista" itself derives from the Latin word "lamella," meaning small plate or layer, referring to their shell's structure.

Lamellists are commonly found in marine sediments, burrowing shallowly into sand or mud. Their diet usually consists of small organic particles, which they filter from the surrounding water or sediment. Reproduction in lamellists is varied, with some species exhibiting external fertilization and others internal fertilization. Their life cycle often includes a larval stage that is planktonic before settling to the seafloor. While generally not of significant ecological or economic importance, lamellists contribute to the biodiversity of benthic communities. Their delicate shells are sometimes collected by beachcombers, though their small size and fragility make them rare finds.