The Southern Olive, Southern Ancilla – Amalda australis is a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Ancillariidae. This species is commonly found in various coastal environments, showcasing its adaptability to different aquatic habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Amalda australis typically measures up to 30 mm in length. Its shell is characterized by a smooth, glossy surface, often displaying a light brown to yellowish-brown color. The shell’s shape is elongated and fusiform, tapering towards both ends. The aperture of the shell is narrow, and the outer lip is slightly thickened.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Southern Olive, Southern Ancilla – Amalda australis inhabits a diverse range of marine environments. It thrives in both the intertidal zone and the subtidal zone, which encompasses the deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic. This species is often found in sheltered areas, such as port facilities, and prefers sandy sea floors. Its presence in both intertidal and subtidal zones demonstrates its adaptability to fluctuating water depths and conditions.
Taxonomy
The species Amalda australis belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Ancillariidae. This classification reflects its evolutionary relationship to other gastropods, highlighting its unique characteristics within the Ancillariidae family.
Distribution and Occurrence
Amalda australis has been observed in various locations along the coastlines of Australia. Its presence in the intertidal and subtidal zones, extending to the deep zone of the oceans, indicates a wide distribution and adaptability to different marine environments. It is particularly prevalent in the neritic zone, which encompasses the waters extending from the coastline to the shelf edge, showcasing its significance in these aquatic ecosystems.
Feeding
The Southern Olive, Southern Ancilla – Amalda australis is a carnivorous and predatory species. It primarily feeds on zoobenthos, which encompasses a wide range of organisms that inhabit the seafloor. Its predatory nature plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem by regulating populations of other organisms.
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