Murex acanthostephes is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails.
Description & Characteristics
Murex acanthostephes is a medium-sized murex snail with a distinctive shell. The shell can reach a maximum size of 60 mm in length. It exhibits a conical shape with a pointed apex and numerous whorls. The outer lip of the shell is typically thickened and exhibits a series of sharp spines, giving the snail its common name. The shell surface often features a complex pattern of ridges and folds, adding to its intricate and visually appealing appearance. The color of the shell can vary depending on the individual and its habitat, ranging from cream to brown with occasional reddish hues.
Habitat and Occurrence
Murex acanthostephes is a marine snail that typically inhabits the intertidal zone and shallow waters of rocky shores. It is commonly found in the infralittoral zone, which extends from the low tide mark to a depth of about 10 meters. This species is also known to occur in the sublittoral zone, reaching depths of up to 30 meters. Murex acanthostephes is particularly prevalent in the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the Red Sea to the Philippines and across the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. This wide distribution signifies the snail’s adaptability to various environmental conditions within its preferred marine zones.
Taxonomy
Murex acanthostephes belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Muricidae. This classification places it within the diverse group of snails that possess a distinctive spiral shell and are often associated with the marine environment. The family Muricidae, in particular, is known for its members’ predominantly carnivorous feeding habits and the presence of prominent spines on their shells, which can be seen in Murex acanthostephes.
Feeding
Murex acanthostephes, like many other murex snails, is a carnivore. It primarily feeds on other mollusks, including bivalves and other gastropods. To access its prey, Murex acanthostephes uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in tiny teeth, to drill holes into the shells of its victims. Once a hole is created, the snail can then inject its digestive enzymes into the prey, breaking down its tissues and allowing the snail to extract the soft body parts.
Image References