Purple False Cowry [Neofibularia marmorata]
Description
The Purple False Cowry, scientifically known as Neofibularia marmorata, is a sea snail species belonging to the family Ovulidae. They are generally found in the waters of the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. These gastropods possess an elongated shell that is slightly inflated and covered with a thin, glossy periostracum. The shell is usually a deep purple color with white or yellowish patches, giving it a marbled appearance. They typically inhabit coral reefs where they feed on soft corals.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Demospongiae
Demospongiae
|
| Order |
Poecilosclerida
Poecilosclerida
|
| Family |
Coelosphaeridae
Coelosphaeridae
|
| Genus |
Neofibularia
Neofibularia
|