The Lesser Harp – Harpa amouretta is a species of sea snail that is found in a variety of marine habitats. This species is a fascinating example of the diversity found within the world’s oceans.
Description & Characteristics
The Harpa amouretta is a relatively small sea snail, reaching a maximum size of about 40 millimeters. Its shell is characterized by a distinctive pattern of fine, longitudinal ribs, giving it a distinctive, almost fluted appearance. The shell color varies, often displaying shades of brown, orange, or cream, with patterns of darker stripes or spots.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Harpa amouretta is a common inhabitant of intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. It can be found on rocky reefs, rocky shores, and in rock pools. The Harpa amouretta is also known to occur in sandy and rubble substrates, making it adaptable to a range of marine environments. It prefers habitats exposed to wave action and moderate currents. This species is found in the following regions:
- Intertidal zone
- Tidal zone
- Rocky reefs
- Rocky shores
- Rock coasts
- Rubble floors
- Sandy sea floors
- Tidal channels
- Intertidal channels
- Tide pools / rock pools
The Harpa amouretta is typically found in the neritic zone, a marine zone that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. It is common in tropical and subtropical waters.
Taxonomy
The species Harpa amouretta belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Harpidae. This classification reflects its evolutionary relationships to other snails and its unique characteristics within the Harpidae family.
Feeding
The Harpa amouretta is a carnivore, feeding primarily on crustaceans, including hermit crabs. It is a predatory snail, using its sharp radula to tear apart its prey.
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