Olivella fulgurata, commonly known as the Fulgurate Olivella, is a small species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Olividae. This species is often found in coastal habitats, showcasing a fascinating adaptation to the marine environment.
Description & Characteristics
The Fulgurate Olivella is a small, smooth, and glossy snail with a distinctive, elongated, oval-shaped shell. The shell is typically white or cream-colored, often with a faint, reddish-brown band around the middle. The maximum size of an adult Olivella fulgurata shell is approximately 15 mm in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Fulgurate Olivella is a common inhabitant of sandy bottoms in the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. It prefers areas with moderate wave action and abundant food sources. This species is commonly found along the Atlantic coast of North America, from North Carolina to Florida. Its distribution extends into the Caribbean Sea as well. In terms of marine zones, the Fulgurate Olivella is typically found in the Neritic zone, which encompasses the coastal waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Olivella fulgurata belongs to the Class Gastropoda, a diverse group of mollusks that includes snails, slugs, and sea butterflies. It is classified within the Order Neogastropoda, a group known for their predatory habits and complex shells. Olivella fulgurata is a member of the Family Olividae, a family of marine snails characterized by their smooth, glossy shells and their often colorful patterns.
Feeding
The Fulgurate Olivella is a carnivorous snail, feeding primarily on small invertebrates like polychaetes (segmented worms) and other small mollusks. They use a radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and tear their prey.
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