Babylonia zeylanica, commonly known as the Indian Babylon, is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Babyloniidae. The Indian Babylon is a distinctive and fascinating creature that plays a crucial role in the intertidal marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Babylonia zeylanica is a medium-sized snail with a distinctive, elongated, and pointed shell. The shell can grow up to 10 cm in length and features a series of spiral ridges and a smooth, glossy surface. The color of the shell can vary depending on the environment, ranging from pale brown to reddish-brown, often with darker markings.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Indian Babylon typically inhabits Intertidal (Eulittoral) zones, the intertidal zone between the high and low tide lines characterized by the alternation of low and high tides. This makes them a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. They are commonly found in rocky shores, sandy beaches, and mudflats along the Indian Ocean coastline.
Taxonomy
The species Babylonia zeylanica belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Babyloniidae. This classification places it within a group of predatory marine snails characterized by their distinct spiral shells and carnivorous feeding habits.
Feeding
Babylonia zeylanica is a carnivorous and predatory snail. Its diet consists primarily of other mollusks, including smaller snails, clams, and worms. It uses its sharp, radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and tear its prey. They are also known to scavenge on carrion, demonstrating their adaptability to different food sources.
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