Hinea lineata is a species of marine snail, a gastropod mollusk in the family Planaxidae. This species is commonly found in intertidal zones, making it a frequent sight in these coastal ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Hinea lineata is characterized by its elongated, conical shell that can reach a maximum size of approximately 20 millimeters. The shell typically exhibits a pale brown color, adorned with fine, darker brown lines, giving rise to its specific name. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is oval-shaped and features a distinct siphonal canal, an adaptation for drawing in water for respiration.
Habitat and Occurrence
Hinea lineata is primarily an intertidal species, meaning it thrives in the zone between high and low tide. This zone is characterized by fluctuating water levels and a wide range of environmental conditions. Hinea lineata is particularly well-adapted to the rocky intertidal zone, where it is commonly found clinging to rocks and other hard surfaces. This snail is widely distributed along the coastlines of Australia, New Zealand, and other areas of the Indo-Pacific region, signifying its adaptability and resilience in diverse marine environments.
Taxonomy
Hinea lineata belongs to the class Gastropoda, which encompasses a diverse group of mollusks with a single, spirally coiled shell. Within this class, it is further classified under the order Caenogastropoda, which includes snails characterized by a well-developed siphon and a distinctive spiral shell. The family Planaxidae, to which Hinea lineata belongs, is comprised of a group of snails that are predominantly found in intertidal and shallow-water habitats.
Feeding
Hinea lineata is a herbivore, feeding primarily on algae that grow on the rocks in its intertidal habitat. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape off algae from the substrate, consuming a variety of species that contribute to the balance of the intertidal ecosystem.
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