Conasprella lucida is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Conidae, the cone snails, cone shells or cones.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Conasprella lucida is typically characterized by its smooth, glossy surface. This characteristic has earned it its species name, “lucida,” which means “shining” or “bright” in Latin. The shell’s color can range from a pale cream to a light brown, often with intricate patterns of darker brown markings. The size of the shell can vary, with individuals typically reaching a maximum length of around 25 millimeters.
Habitat and Occurrence
Conasprella lucida is typically found in the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution extends from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean. This species is commonly found in the intertidal zone, often inhabiting rocky shores and coral reefs. Conasprella lucida is known to prefer areas with a high density of prey, particularly other small invertebrates.
Taxonomy
The species Conasprella lucida belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Conidae. This family is known for its diverse range of species, all characterized by their distinctive cone-shaped shells and predatory nature.
Feeding
Like other cone snails, Conasprella lucida is a carnivorous predator. It uses a specialized harpoon-like structure, called a radula, to inject venom into its prey, which are primarily other small invertebrates. This venom is highly potent and can paralyze or kill its prey within seconds. Once immobilized, the cone snail uses its radula to draw the prey into its mouth for consumption.
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