Tugali cicatricosa is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Fissurellidae, the keyhole limpets. It is a relatively small species of limpet, typically inhabiting shallow, rocky intertidal zones and subtidal habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Tugali cicatricosa is a small, flattened limpet with a distinctive conical shell. The shell is typically cream-colored to light brown, often with darker brown or reddish-brown markings. It has a characteristic “keyhole” opening near the apex of the shell, which allows for the expulsion of water from the mantle cavity. The shell’s surface is often covered in fine, radial ridges. The maximum size of Tugali cicatricosa is around 10 millimeters in diameter.
Habitat and Occurrence
Tugali cicatricosa is found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of the Pacific Ocean, primarily along the west coast of North America. It is a common species in these areas, often occurring in large numbers on rocky substrates. Tugali cicatricosa is typically found in the infralittoral zone, a marine zone extending from the lowest low tide mark to a depth of about 20 meters.
Taxonomy
Tugali cicatricosa belongs to the family Fissurellidae, which is part of the order Lepetellida within the class Gastropoda. The family Fissurellidae comprises a diverse group of limpets that are characterized by the presence of a “keyhole” opening in their shells. These openings serve as an outlet for water expelled from the mantle cavity, which is used for respiration and excretion.
Feeding
Like other limpets, Tugali cicatricosa is a herbivorous grazer. It feeds on algae and other microscopic organisms that it scrapes from the surfaces of rocks. Its strong, muscular foot enables it to firmly attach to the substrate and resist wave action.
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