#cyclestherida

Clam Shrimp (Orders Laevicaudata,Spinicaudata and Cyclestherida)

Clam shrimp are a group of unique bivalved branchiopods that have no relation to molluscan bivalves. Clam shrimp can be found worldwide, mostly in vernal pools and other small bodies of water, where the filter the water for passing nutrients and food. Like other branchiopods like the infamous Daphnia clam shrimp have several rows of legs which they use to swim trough the water. When threatened the clam shrimp like a true clam can close its hardy shell and will drift to the bottom until it is safe.

Phylogeny

Animalia-Arthropoda-Crustacea-Branchiopoda-Phyllopoda-Laevicaudata (Spinicaudata) (Cyclestherida)