Diodora inaequalis is a species of marine snail that belongs to the family Fissurellidae, commonly known as keyhole limpets. This unique species exhibits distinctive characteristics and plays a significant role in its marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Diodora inaequalis is a small to medium-sized limpet, with a maximum size of approximately 25 millimeters. Its shell is typically conical in shape with a distinctive keyhole-shaped opening on the top. The shell is often smooth and glossy, with variations in color ranging from brown to gray or even white. The aperture, the opening of the shell, is typically larger than the keyhole opening, accommodating the snail’s body.
Habitat and Occurrence
Diodora inaequalis is commonly found in the intertidal zone of rocky shores, often clinging to exposed surfaces in the splash zone or just below the high tide mark. This species can be found throughout the North Pacific Ocean, with a depth range extending from the surface to approximately 50 meters. It is particularly prevalent in the sublittoral zone, a region below the low tide mark, where it finds suitable conditions for survival and reproduction.
Taxonomy
Diodora inaequalis belongs to the family Fissurellidae, which is a diverse group of marine gastropods. The family is further classified within the order Lepetellida, which comprises a range of limpet-like snails. Diodora inaequalis falls under the class Gastropoda, a large and diverse group of mollusks that includes snails, slugs, and nudibranchs.
Feeding
Diodora inaequalis is primarily a herbivore, feeding on algae that it grazes from the surface of rocks. Its feeding habits are adapted to its rocky habitat, with its strong, muscular foot enabling it to cling firmly to surfaces while its radula, a rasping tongue, scrapes off algae.
Image References