Cerithium dialeucum is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Cerithiidae. It is a common and widespread species found in various marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
Cerithium dialeucum is a relatively small snail, typically reaching a maximum size of around 20-25 millimeters. Its shell is elongated and conical, with a pointed apex. The shell surface is usually smooth or slightly textured, often displaying a characteristic pattern of fine spiral lines. The color of the shell can vary considerably, ranging from pale beige to dark brown or even reddish-brown.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cerithium dialeucum is a common inhabitant of intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically found in rocky shores, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests. It is a particularly abundant species in the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Pacific islands. This wide distribution makes it a prevalent presence in various marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Cerithium dialeucum belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Caenogastropoda incertae sedis, and Family: Cerithiidae. This classification places it within a diverse group of marine snails, characterized by their elongated, pointed shells and often intricate shell patterns.
Feeding
Cerithium dialeucum is a herbivore, feeding primarily on algae and detritus found on the seafloor. Its feeding habits play an important role in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the recycling of nutrients and maintaining the balance of benthic communities.
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