The Spurred Turban, Star Shell, scientifically known as Astralium calcar, is a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Turbinidae. This fascinating species is characterized by its distinctive, spiraled shell and its unique, star-shaped aperture.
Description & Characteristics
The Astralium calcar is a relatively small to medium-sized gastropod, with its shell typically reaching a maximum size of approximately 40 mm in diameter. The shell exhibits a conical shape with a broad, flat base. It features a series of prominent, spiraled ridges that run from the apex to the base, creating a textured and attractive appearance. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is distinctive in its star-shaped form, which lends itself to the common name “Star Shell”. The outer lip of the aperture is often thickened and slightly flared.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Astralium calcar is found primarily in intertidal and subtidal regions, making it a common sight in these marine environments. It is particularly well-adapted to rocky shores, where it clings tightly to the substrate. This species prefers areas with strong wave action and a high level of salinity. The Astralium calcar is a widespread species, with its distribution encompassing a range of coastal areas across the Indo-Pacific region. It is a prominent presence in the coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows of this vast region, often inhabiting depths ranging from the intertidal zone to around 50 meters.
Taxonomy
The Astralium calcar belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Trochida, and Family: Turbinidae. This classification reflects the species’ evolutionary relationship with other marine snails. The Gastropoda class encompasses a wide variety of snails and slugs, while the Trochida order represents a group of marine snails characterized by their typically conical shells. The Turbinidae family, to which the Astralium calcar belongs, includes a diverse range of turban snails, known for their often ornate shells.
Feeding
The Astralium calcar is a herbivorous gastropod, primarily feeding on algae. It uses its strong, rasping radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape algae from rocks and other surfaces. This feeding behavior plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem, preventing algal overgrowth.
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