The species inhabits temporary water bodies and occurs in the Eurosiberian Boreo-temperate or possibly the Eurasian Boreo-temperate if East Siberia specimens are correctly identified.

It may be Holarctic, again if North American specimens are correctly identified.

This species inhabits very shallow ponds and ditches, usually ones that dry out periodically.

In contrast to the shell, the soft parts of the animal are black or dark grey.

Although the animals themselves die when a temporary pond dries out, the eggs are extremely resistant to desiccation.