The Giant Spider Conch, scientifically known as Lambis truncata, is a large and striking marine gastropod mollusc belonging to the Strombidae family. This species is distinguished by its unique and elaborate shell, making it a popular specimen among shell collectors.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Lambis truncata is typically 10-15 cm in length and is characterized by its intricate, spiny projections. These projections, resembling the legs of a spider, are actually extensions of the shell’s lip and can vary in size and shape. The shell is often a deep brown or reddish-brown color with patterns of white or yellow. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is wide and oval-shaped, with a distinctive siphonal canal that extends from the lip.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Giant Spider Conch is found throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is a common inhabitant of the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic., making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Lambis truncata belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Strombidae. This classification places it within a diverse group of marine snails characterized by their often-elaborate shells and specialized feeding habits.
Feeding
Giant Spider Conches are primarily herbivores, feeding on algae and detritus. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape algae from rocks and other surfaces. They also ingest small invertebrates that may be trapped within the algae or detritus.
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