Lodderena

Lodderena is a genus of minute sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Skeneidae. These snails are typically found in deep-sea environments.

Description:

Snails within the Lodderena genus are characterized by their small size, often less than 5 millimeters in diameter. Their shells are typically turbiniform or discoidal in shape, with a rounded aperture. The shell surface is often smooth, but may exhibit spiral or axial ornamentation. The coloration is usually translucent white or cream-colored.

Distribution:

Lodderena species have been recorded from various locations worldwide, generally in deeper waters. This includes regions in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Specific species may have more restricted ranges.

Ecology:

Due to their small size and deep-sea habitat, the ecology of Lodderena species is not well understood. They are presumed to be grazers on organic matter or biofilms found on the seafloor.

Taxonomy:

The genus Lodderena was established by Iredale in 1924. The classification and species composition within the genus has been subject to revisions over time. It is important to consult current taxonomic databases to ascertain the most up-to-date species list.

Species:

The exact number of valid species within the Lodderena genus varies depending on taxonomic viewpoints. Examples of accepted species that have been identified are:

• Lodderena formosa (Powell, 1930)
• Lodderena minima (Tenison Woods, 1878)

This is not an exhaustive list, and further research may reveal additional species.

Further Research:

Additional research is required to fully understand the diversity, distribution, and ecological role of Lodderena species in deep-sea ecosystems. More comprehensive studies utilizing molecular techniques and advanced microscopy are needed.