opheleia

Opheleia is a genus of small, freshwater snails belonging to the family Planorbidae. These snails are characterized by their flattened, coiled shells, which are typically sinistral or left-coiled. The shells are often thin and translucent, with a relatively wide aperture. Opheleia snails are found in various freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams, often preferring areas with submerged vegetation.

The diet of Opheleia snails primarily consists of algae and detritus, which they scrape from surfaces using their radula. They play a role in their ecosystem by contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for other aquatic organisms. Reproduction in Opheleia is typically sexual, with individuals being hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They lay their eggs in gelatinous masses, usually attached to submerged objects.

While not as widely known as some other freshwater snail genera, Opheleia contributes to the biodiversity of freshwater environments. Their specific ecological roles and population dynamics can vary depending on the particular species and its habitat. Research on Opheleia is ongoing, aiming to better understand their life cycles, evolutionary relationships, and ecological significance within their freshwater communities.