Punctate Cowry, Brown-Spotted Cowry – Ransoniella punctata

, Punctate Cowry, Brown-Spotted Cowry, Ransoniella punctata
Depth: 1 - 35 m

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The Punctate Cowry, Brown-Spotted Cowry, scientifically known as Ransoniella punctata, is a small, colorful species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Cypraeidae, the cowries. This species, like other cowries, possesses a distinctive, glossy shell with a characteristic pattern. Ransoniella punctata is a common and easily recognizable species found in various parts of the world.

Description & Characteristics

Ransoniella punctata is a relatively small cowry species, typically reaching a maximum size of around 12 mm in length. The shell is smooth, rounded, and glossy with a characteristic pattern of brown spots on a white or cream-colored background. The base of the shell is flat, while the dorsal surface is slightly convex. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is long and narrow, extending the entire length of the shell. The shell is highly polished and resembles a smooth, polished pebble. The exterior of the shell is covered in a thin layer of enamel, which gives the shell its distinctive sheen.

Habitat and Occurrence

Ransoniella punctata inhabits a wide range of marine environments, typically found in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. This species is commonly found in areas with rocky substrates, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. Ransoniella punctata exhibits a preference for warmer waters and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. This species, particularly common in the Indo-Pacific region, thrives in both the Neritic and Oceanic zones.

Taxonomy

Ransoniella punctata belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Cypraeidae. This classification places it within the diverse and fascinating group of snails, categorized as marine gastropods and specifically within the cowrie family. The classification reflects the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics of this species with other members of its group.

Feeding

Ransoniella punctata is an omnivorous species, meaning it feeds on both plant and animal matter. Its diet consists mainly of algae, but it also consumes small snails and other invertebrates. Its feeding habits contribute to the ecological balance of its habitat, helping to control populations of various organisms.

Associated Species

Image References

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