Tritia corniculum is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Nassariidae, the nassa mud snails. It is commonly known as the “coronet nassa”. This species has a unique appearance and plays a significant role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Tritia corniculum is a relatively small sea snail, typically reaching a maximum size of 15 millimeters in length. Its shell is characterized by a distinctive conical shape, with a pointed apex and a wide, open aperture. The shell is usually white or light brown, with numerous fine ridges or spiral cords running along its surface. The aperture of the shell has a distinct, tooth-like structure, which gives the species its common name, “coronet nassa.”
Habitat and Occurrence
Tritia corniculum is commonly found in the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal areas, typically inhabiting rocky shores and sandy bottoms. This species prefers habitats with moderate wave action and is commonly observed in the infralittoral zone (the marine zone below the lowest low tide mark, but above the depth to which sunlight can reach the seabed). It is also found in the circalittoral zone, which extends to a depth of about 200 meters.
Taxonomy
Tritia corniculum is classified within the phylum Mollusca, class Gastropoda, order Neogastropoda, and family Nassariidae. The Nassariidae, or nassa mud snails, are a large and diverse family of marine snails that are typically found in shallow waters. This particular species belongs to the genus Tritia, which encompasses a number of closely related nassa mud snail species.
Feeding
Tritia corniculum is a carnivorous snail, primarily feeding on small invertebrates such as worms, crustaceans, and other mollusks. Its feeding strategy involves using its radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and tear its prey.
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