Calthalotia strigata is a species of marine snail, a gastropod mollusk in the family Trochidae. This snail exhibits distinctive characteristics and plays a vital role in its marine environment.
Description & Characteristics
Calthalotia strigata is characterized by its distinctive shell, which is typically conical and moderately elevated. The shell’s surface is adorned with prominent, spirally arranged ribs, giving it a striated appearance, hence the specific epithet “strigata.” The color of the shell varies depending on the individual specimen but generally ranges from pale brown to reddish-brown. The maximum size of this snail is approximately 20 millimeters.
Habitat and Occurrence
Calthalotia strigata is a common inhabitant of the intertidal zone, specifically in rocky areas with abundant algae and seaweed. This makes it a prevalent presence in the infralittoral zone, a marine zone that is influenced by tides and sunlight. The snail’s distribution extends throughout the Indo-Pacific region, where it thrives in these coastal environments.
Taxonomy
The species Calthalotia strigata is classified within the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses a vast array of snails and slugs. It belongs to the Order Trochida, a group known for their distinctive, often brightly colored shells. Calthalotia strigata is further classified within the Family Trochidae, a family of marine snails renowned for their beautiful and diverse shell shapes.
Feeding
Like many members of its family, Calthalotia strigata is primarily a grazer, feeding on algae that grow on rocky surfaces. Its feeding habits play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem, by controlling the growth of algae and providing food for other organisms.
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