Conus bartschi is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae, the cone snails, cone shells or cone snails.
Description and Characteristics
Conus bartschi is a relatively small cone snail, typically reaching a maximum size of around 35 mm. Its shell is characterized by a distinctive, conical shape with a pointed apex. The color of the shell can vary, but it is often a pale brown or cream color with darker brown markings. The surface of the shell is smooth and glossy, and it may have a faint spiral pattern.
Habitat and Occurrence
Conus bartschi is a benthic species, meaning it lives on or near the seafloor. It is commonly found in shallow water habitats, typically in depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters. It is primarily found in the and is a prominent species in these marine zones.
Taxonomy
Conus bartschi belongs to the family Conidae, which is a diverse group of marine snails that are known for their venomous harpoons. The family Conidae is part of the order Neogastropoda, which includes a wide range of predatory snails, and falls under the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses all snails and slugs.
Feeding
Like other cone snails, Conus bartschi is a carnivorous predator. It uses a harpoon-like structure in its mouth to inject a venomous toxin into its prey. This toxin paralyzes the prey, allowing the snail to consume it. Conus bartschi is known to feed on small invertebrates, such as worms and other mollusks.
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