Sculptured Top Shell [Cantharidus sculpturatus]
Description
The Sculptured Top Shell is a marine gastropod mollusk that belongs to the family Trochidae. It is known for its striking sculptured shell, which features a distinctive pattern of ridges and grooves. This species typically inhabits the intertidal zone on rocky shores, where it feeds on algae. It is known to be most active during the night, often hiding in crevices during the day to avoid predators. The shell is generally a mottled brown color, but can also be found in shades of purple and pink.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Gastropods
Gastropoda
|
| Order |
Littorinimorpha
Littorinimorpha
|
| Family |
Tritons
Ranellidae
|
| Genus |
Sculptured Top Shells
Cabestana
|