These are small, stygobitic shrimp found in the West Mediterranean region (France and Spain), Caribbean region (the Antilles, Bahamas and Yucatán), Ascension Island and the Galápagos, although the individual species often have very small ranges.

[2][3] Species in this genus are found in salt, brackish and fresh waters,[3] mostly in anchialine habitats and none in the open sea.

[4] Phylogenetic studies indicate that the genus as presently defined is paraphyletic and needs to be redefined, as T. galapagensis clusters with the widespread Antecaridina and T. monae likely with the Australian Stygiocaris.

On a higher level, these three genera, together with Halocaridina and Halocaridinides, form a group.

[2] In addition to the species below, "Typhlatya" jusbaschjani (Georgia) and "Typhlatya" pretneri (Hercegovina) have been listed in this genus, but the former is a species inquirenda and recent authorities generally include the latter in Troglocaris.