- Graceful clam shrimp
Taxobox
name=Graceful clam shrimp
status=LC
regnum=Animal ia
phylum=Arthropod a
subphylum=Crustacea
classis=Branchiopoda
ordo=Laevicaudata
familia=Lynceidae
genus="Lynceus"
species="L. gracilicornis"
binomial="Lynceus gracilicornis"
binomial_authority=Packard, 1871The graceful clam shrimp is a species of
clam shrimp found inTexas , northernFlorida and possibly other regions in between.Characteristics
This large clam shrimp presents a body colouration varying from orange to rose, and a dark maroon shell. The eggs carried by the female are yellow to orange. The species is distinguished from other Lynceidae members because the males have a pair of large claspers, with the right clasper being larger than the left. There are no growth marks on the
carapace , as in other clam shrimp. Graceful clam shrimp swim upside down or on their side, using legs and antennae for backward propulsion.Ecology
"L. gracilicornis" is usually found in the shallow grassy parts of temporary ponds. When
oxygen levels are high, some individuals may be found in deep water. Graceful clam shrimp feed onplankton that they collect while swimming.Reproduction
The male clasps the lower margin of the female's shell and swims while holding her above him. Females carry up to 200 eggs under the carapace.
References
Grzimek's Animal Life Encyclopedia. Volume 2 — Protostomes.
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