Lynceidae
Guides
Laevicaudata
clam shrimp
Laevicaudata is a suborder of small branchiopod crustaceans commonly known as clam shrimp, characterized by a laterally compressed bivalved carapace that encloses the entire body. The group contains approximately 36 described species in the single family Lynceidae, with the genus Lynceus as the primary representative. Laevicaudatans inhabit temporary freshwater habitats worldwide, with documented occurrences across six continents including remote insular locations. The group has been historically understudied compared to other large branchiopods, though recent taxonomic revisions have clarified species boundaries, particularly in Australia where six species are now recognized.