Nebaliellidae [Nebaliellidae]

Description

The Nebaliellidae family includes a smaller group of leptostracans, distinguished by their more streamlined bodies and a slightly different arrangement of their appendages compared to the Nebaliidae. These crustaceans are also transparent and feature a bivalve-like carapace, but they tend to inhabit slightly deeper waters. The thoracic limbs of Nebaliellidae members are specifically adapted for filter feeding, allowing them to capture plankton and other small particles from the water. Despite their small size, they play a significant role in the marine food web as a source of food for larger predators.

Genera

Taxonomy