Melampus monile, commonly known as the “monile” or “necklace” snail, is a small, air-breathing snail belonging to the family Ellobiidae. This species is notable for its unique appearance and its adaptation to a semi-terrestrial lifestyle.
Description & Characteristics
Melampus monile typically reaches a maximum size of around 15 millimeters in length. Its shell is characterized by a series of prominent, rounded ridges, giving it a distinctly beaded appearance. This distinctive pattern gives rise to the common name “necklace snail.” The shell is typically a light brown to yellowish-brown color, sometimes with darker bands or markings. The snail itself has a soft, elongated body with a pair of long, retractable tentacles and a pair of eyes at the base of the tentacles.
Habitat and Occurrence
Melampus monile is found in a variety of coastal habitats, primarily in the intertidal zone. They are often found in areas with high levels of salinity, such as salt marshes, mangrove swamps, and muddy shores. These snails are frequently found in groups, often congregating in areas with abundant food sources. They are particularly common in the zones, where they thrive in the fluctuating conditions of the intertidal environment.
Taxonomy
Melampus monile is classified within the Class Gastropoda, which includes all snails and slugs. It belongs to the Order Ellobiida, a group of marine and terrestrial snails that have adapted to life in environments with varying levels of salinity. Within the Ellobiida order, the species is categorized under the Family Ellobiidae, which comprises snails that are generally found in intertidal and terrestrial habitats.
Feeding
Melampus monile is an herbivore, feeding primarily on algae and detritus. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape food from surfaces. Their diet consists of a wide variety of algae, including filamentous green algae, red algae, and diatoms. They also consume decaying plant matter, playing a significant role in the decomposition of organic matter in their environment.
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