Echinolittorina hawaiiensis

, Echinolittorina hawaiiensis
Water Type: Marine

Echinolittorina hawaiiensis is a species of small, marine snail belonging to the family Littorinidae. This species is commonly found in intertidal regions of the Pacific Ocean, inhabiting rocky shores and tide pools.

Description and Characteristics

Echinolittorina hawaiiensis is a relatively small snail, typically reaching a maximum size of 10 millimeters. Its shell is characterized by its conical shape, with a pointed apex and a wide, rounded base. The shell surface is typically covered in small, raised bumps, giving it a rough texture. The color of the shell can vary from light brown to dark brown, with some individuals exhibiting reddish or yellowish hues.

Habitat and Occurrence

Echinolittorina hawaiiensis is a common inhabitant of intertidal zones, specifically the mid- to high intertidal regions. This species can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky shores, tide pools, and even on mangrove roots. It exhibits a strong preference for habitats with hard substrata, where it can attach itself firmly to prevent dislodgement during wave action. The presence of Echinolittorina hawaiiensis is a common characteristic of the intertidal zone, where it plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem.

Taxonomy

Echinolittorina hawaiiensis belongs to the class Gastropoda, which encompasses a diverse range of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial snails. Within this class, it is classified under the order Littorinimorpha, a group of snails adapted to intertidal and coastal environments. It is a member of the family Littorinidae, a family known for its diverse array of intertidal snails, including the well-known periwinkles.

Feeding

Echinolittorina hawaiiensis is a herbivorous snail, feeding primarily on algae. It grazes on a variety of algae, including diatoms, filamentous algae, and macroalgae. This species plays an important role in the intertidal ecosystem by controlling the growth of algae, thus maintaining a balance within the community.

Associated Species

Image References

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