Clanculus stigmatarius is a species of small, colorful sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Trochidae, the top snails.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Clanculus stigmatarius is typically about 10 mm in diameter, though it can reach a maximum size of 13 mm. The shell is conical, with a high spire and a rounded base. The shell is ornamented with a series of fine radial ribs, which are crossed by numerous fine spiral lines. The aperture is circular, and the lip is thin and sharp. The color of the shell is highly variable, but often ranges from shades of pink to reddish-brown.
Habitat and Occurrence
Clanculus stigmatarius is found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in the western Indian Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. This species is predominantly associated with shallow coral reefs and rocky shores, often residing in intertidal zones and subtidal environments. The species generally occurs at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Clanculus stigmatarius belongs to the Class Gastropoda, Order Trochida, and Family Trochidae. This classification places it among a diverse group of sea snails, many of which are known for their distinctive and often colorful shells.
Feeding
Clanculus stigmatarius is an herbivorous gastropod, primarily feeding on algae and other microscopic organisms. They use their radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, to scrape off algae from rocks and other surfaces.
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