Trochita pileolus, commonly known as the “pileolus limpet”, is a species of small, marine snail that belongs to the family Calyptraeidae. It is a common inhabitant of rocky intertidal zones and shallow subtidal areas, displaying a unique morphology and interesting ecological interactions.
Description and Characteristics
The Trochita pileolus is characterized by its distinctive, conical shell, typically measuring up to 15 millimeters in height and 25 millimeters in diameter. The shell exhibits a smooth, glossy surface and possesses a characteristic, slightly flattened apex. The color of the shell varies from a pale grayish-white to a darker brown or reddish-brown, often adorned with faint radial lines or patches of coloration.
Habitat and Occurrence
Trochita pileolus is a predominantly intertidal species, residing in the rocky intertidal zone and shallow subtidal areas. It exhibits a preference for sheltered locations, often found clinging to rocks, barnacles, or other hard surfaces. The species is widely distributed along the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to Baja California, Mexico. It is particularly abundant in the mid-intertidal zone, where it is commonly found in association with other intertidal organisms. In terms of marine zones, Trochita pileolus primarily inhabits the neritic zone, which is the relatively shallow water zone extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Trochita pileolus is classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Calyptraeidae. This family is comprised of a diverse group of marine snails that are known for their unique shell morphology, often resembling small, conical caps.
Feeding
Trochita pileolus is a herbivorous grazer, feeding primarily on algae and other microscopic organisms attached to rocks and other surfaces. Its diet consists mainly of diatoms, which are single-celled algae, and other microalgae. They use their radula, a tongue-like structure covered in rows of tiny teeth, to scrape algae off the surfaces they inhabit. The Trochita pileolus plays a vital role in controlling algal populations within its habitat, influencing the overall ecological balance of the intertidal zone.
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