Tonna chinensis, also known as the Chinese Tonna, is a species of large sea snail belonging to the family Tonnidae. These gastropods are characterized by their distinctive bulbous shells, often adorned with intricate patterns and colors.
Description and Characteristics
Tonna chinensis is a robust sea snail, reaching a maximum shell size of approximately 15 cm. The shell is typically globose, with a wide aperture and a short spire. The outer surface of the shell is usually covered in spiral ridges and tubercles, giving it a rough texture. The color of the shell can vary, but is often a light brown or yellowish-brown, sometimes with darker markings.
Habitat and Occurrence
Tonna chinensis is a marine species found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is typically found in shallow waters, ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of around 50 meters. Its habitat is characterized by sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds. This species is common in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Tonna chinensis is classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Tonnidae. This family, the Tonnidae, is distinguished by its large, heavy shells, often with a smooth or textured surface. The order Littorinimorpha is a large and diverse order within the Gastropoda, containing a wide range of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial snails. The Gastropoda, or gastropods, are the largest and most diverse class within the phylum Mollusca, encompassing snails, slugs, and nudibranchs.
Feeding
Tonna chinensis is a carnivorous predator, feeding primarily on sea urchins and other echinoderms. It uses its radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, to scrape away the spines and flesh of its prey.
Image References