Tenguella granulata is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails. This species is known for its distinctive appearance and plays a significant role in marine ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Tenguella granulata is a small to medium-sized sea snail with a distinctive conical shell. The shell is typically brown or grayish-brown in color with a rough, granular texture. The spire is pointed and the body whorl is large and rounded. The aperture is oval-shaped and the outer lip is often flared. The maximum size of Tenguella granulata is approximately 3 cm in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
Tenguella granulata is a common inhabitant of the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal waters. It is found in a variety of habitats, including rocky shores, sandy beaches, and seagrass meadows. This species is particularly well-adapted to life in the intertidal zone, where it must withstand exposure to air and changing salinity.
Tenguella granulata is widely distributed in the temperate waters of the northern hemisphere, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Tenguella granulata belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Muricidae. The family Muricidae encompasses a diverse group of sea snails, known for their often spiky shells and predatory nature.
Feeding
Tenguella granulata is a carnivorous snail that feeds on a variety of marine invertebrates, including barnacles, mussels, and other snails. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered with teeth, to scrape food from surfaces.
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