Pseudopusula sanguinea, commonly known as the Sanguine Cowrie, is a species of marine snail belonging to the family Triviidae. These small, colorful gastropods are found in a variety of habitats, adding a splash of vibrancy to the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Pseudopusula sanguinea is a relatively small cowrie, typically reaching a maximum size of around 15 millimeters. The shell is characterized by its smooth, glossy surface and a distinctive, rounded shape. The color is highly variable, ranging from deep red to a brilliant orange-red with white markings. The shell is often marked with intricate patterns of white or cream-colored lines, adding to its visual appeal.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pseudopusula sanguinea is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific. They are commonly found in shallow, rocky reef habitats, where they reside amongst coral and algae. Their preferred depth range typically extends from the intertidal zone down to depths of around 20 meters. They are known to occur in the neritic zone, which is the marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Pseudopusula sanguinea belongs to the class Gastropoda, which encompasses a wide array of mollusks including snails, slugs, and nudibranchs. It is further classified within the order Littorinimorpha, a group that comprises a significant portion of the world’s marine snails. This species belongs to the family Triviidae, a diverse group of cowries known for their beautiful shells and relatively simple anatomy.
Feeding
Pseudopusula sanguinea, like many other cowries, is a carnivorous species. It feeds primarily on sponges and other small invertebrates that it finds amongst the coral reefs. These cowries are efficient hunters, using their radula, a specialized tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape their prey from surfaces.
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