The Crystalline Seastar Snail, scientifically known as Thyca crystallina, is a fascinating and unique marine gastropod mollusk. It is a member of the family Eulimidae, which are commonly referred to as “slit shells.” This small snail exhibits a distinctive crystalline appearance, reflecting its name.
Description & Characteristics
Thyca crystallina is a relatively small snail, reaching a maximum size of approximately 10 millimeters in length. Its shell is characterized by its translucent, almost glassy appearance. The shell is typically white or pale yellow and features fine, spiral ridges. The aperture of the shell is slightly wider than it is tall, and the outer lip is often slightly flared.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Crystalline Seastar Snail is primarily found in the neritic zone, specifically in the infralittoral zone, which refers to the shallow waters along the coastline. This species exhibits a preference for rocky and sandy substrates. Thyca crystallina has been documented throughout the Indo-Pacific region, encompassing a vast geographic range.
Taxonomy
The species Thyca crystallina belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Eulimidae. This family is known for its diverse array of species, many of which exhibit a specialized parasitic lifestyle.
Feeding
Thyca crystallina is a parasitic snail. It feeds on the body fluids of starfish, particularly the species known as Linckia laevigata. This specialized feeding strategy is unique and contributes to the snail’s adaptation to its marine environment.
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