While it is considered a dwarf shrimp, it is classified under the more primitive shrimp family Xiphocarididae, who share the presence of strap-like epipods on at least the first three pairs of pereiopods and a blunt molar process, and not the well known freshwater shrimp family Atyidae. It is the only species in the Xiphocarididae family and is considered a shredder feeder; it will rip organic matter into smaller pieces.