Nassarius hirtus is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Nassariidae.
Description and Characteristics
Nassarius hirtus has a distinctive, elongated shell with a pointed apex. The shell is typically light brown with darker brown spots and markings. It reaches a maximum size of about 20 millimeters. The surface of the shell has a rough, hairy texture, giving rise to the common name “hairy nassa”.
Habitat and Occurrence
Nassarius hirtus is found in a variety of habitats, including sandy and muddy bottoms, rocky shores, and estuaries. It is often found in the intertidal zone and can also occur in subtidal areas down to a depth of about 50 meters. This species is common in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the coasts of Europe and North America. It can be found in both the neritic and oceanic zones, but its greatest prevalence is in the neritic zone.
Taxonomy
Nassarius hirtus belongs to the Class Gastropoda, Order Neogastropoda, and Family Nassariidae. These gastropods are characterized by their distinctive shells and their predatory habits. This classification places Nassarius hirtus within a diverse and widespread group of marine snails.
Feeding
Nassarius hirtus is a carnivorous species, feeding mainly on other small invertebrates, including worms, crustaceans, and other snails. It is a scavenger and a predator, playing an important role in the food web.
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