Bumble Bee Snail, Striped Engina – Engina mendicaria

, Bumble Bee Snail, Striped Engina - Engina mendicaria, Engina mendicaria
Depth: 2 - 4 m
Water Type: Marine
Toxicity: Toxic hazard unknown
Red List Status: Not evaluated (NE)
Temperature: 25,2 °F - 29,3 °F (25,2°C - 29,3°C)

The Bumble Bee Snail, Striped Engina, scientifically known as Engina mendicaria, is a captivating marine gastropod species, renowned for its striking appearance and adaptability to diverse marine habitats. This species stands out with its distinctive shell pattern, resembling the stripes of a bumble bee, contributing to its common name. Engina mendicaria plays a vital role in its environment, acting as a scavenger and contributing to the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Description & Characteristics

Engina mendicaria is a medium-sized snail, typically reaching a maximum size of around 30 mm. Its shell, characterized by a conical shape, is adorned with distinctive brown and white stripes reminiscent of a bumble bee. The aperture, the opening of the shell, is oval and adorned with a smooth, glossy lip. The snail’s body, typically a creamy white color, is partially concealed within the shell when not actively moving.

Habitat and Occurrence

Engina mendicaria exhibits a preference for intertidal and subtidal zones, primarily inhabiting rocky reefs and stony soils. This species thrives in the neritic zone, specifically the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, extending from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters water depth. This adaptability allows Engina mendicaria to flourish in a diverse range of marine environments.

Taxonomy

Engina mendicaria belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Pisaniidae. This classification reflects its evolutionary lineage and shared characteristics with other members of these taxonomic groups.

Distribution and Occurrence

The Bumble Bee Snail, Striped Engina, Engina mendicaria, is widely distributed in the neritic zone, including the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral regions. It is a prevalent presence in these marine ecosystems, inhabiting rocky reefs and stony soils from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to depths of approximately 200 meters. Its adaptable nature allows Engina mendicaria to thrive in diverse environments.

Feeding

Engina mendicaria is a scavenger, primarily feeding on carrion and detritus. This feeding strategy allows it to play a vital role in the marine ecosystem by breaking down organic matter, contributing to the nutrient cycle and the health of the marine environment.

Associated Species

Image References

Leave a Comment