Common Lynceus
Lynceus brachyurus
Lynceus brachyurus, known generally as the holarctic clam shrimp or common lynceus, is a species of clam shrimp in the family Lynceidae. It is found in Europe.
13
Countries
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Tom Murray, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Tom Murray
Taxonomy & Classification
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Branchiopoda
Order
Diplostraca
Family
Lynceidae
Genus
Lynceus
Common Lynceus belongs to the family Lynceidae, order Diplostraca, within the Branchiopoda class.
Species Profile
Lynceus brachyurus, known generally as the holarctic clam shrimp or common lynceus, is a species of clam shrimp in the family Lynceidae. It is found in Europe.
Common Lynceus faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss of temporary freshwater pools due to agricultural intensification and urban development. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and climate-induced changes to precipitation patterns further threaten the ephemeral aquatic habitats this species depends on for reproduction and survival.
Key Facts
Habitat & Distribution
Temporary freshwater pools, seasonal ponds, and ephemeral wetlands in grasslands and agricultural landscapes. This species requires shallow, temporary water bodies that periodically dry out, allowing for the completion of its drought-resistant life cycle.
Threats
Drainage of temporary wetlands
Habitat loss from agricultural conversion
Urban development and infrastructure expansion
Climate change affecting precipitation patterns
Water pollution from agricultural runoff
Found in 13 Countries
Community Sightings
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Sources & Attribution
How to Cite
IUCN: IUCN (2025). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2025-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2025-1.RLTS
GBIF: GBIF.org (2025). GBIF Home Page. Available at: https://www.gbif.org
This page: SpeciesRadar (2025). Common Lynceus (Lynceus brachyurus). SpeciesRadar: Intelligence for Earth's Biodiversity. Available at: https://speciesradar.org/species/common-lynceus