Phorcus mariae is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Trochidae, the top snails.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Phorcus mariae is typically small, reaching a maximum size of about 15 millimeters. Its distinctive features include a conical shape with a pointed apex, a rounded base, and a series of prominent spiral cords that run along the shell’s surface. The coloration of Phorcus mariae can vary, with some specimens exhibiting a reddish-brown hue, while others display a more yellowish or greenish coloration.
Habitat and Occurrence
Phorcus mariae is found in a variety of marine habitats, including rocky shores, tide pools, and subtidal zones. It is particularly common in the intertidal zone, where it can be found clinging to rocks and algae. Its distribution encompasses a wide range of marine zones, including the neritic zone (the shallow waters close to the shore) and the sublittoral zone (the zone extending from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf).
Taxonomy
Phorcus mariae belongs to the Class Gastropoda, which includes snails, slugs, and other soft-bodied mollusks. It is further classified within the Order Trochida, a group of snails characterized by their conical shells and their ability to graze on algae. The family Trochidae, to which Phorcus mariae belongs, comprises a diverse array of top snails, known for their brightly colored shells and their diverse habitats.
Feeding
Phorcus mariae is an herbivore, feeding primarily on algae. Using its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, it scrapes algae from surfaces, obtaining nutrients from these photosynthetic organisms. This grazing activity plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance and health of coastal habitats.
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