Turbo haynesi

, Turbo haynesi
Water Type: Marine

Turbo haynesi is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Turbinidae. It is a common and distinctive species found in the Indo-Pacific region, known for its large, robust shell and striking coloration.

Description & Characteristics

Turbo haynesi has a large, heavy, conical shell that can reach a maximum size of around 100 mm in length. The shell is typically a deep reddish-brown color with irregular, white patches and streaks. The spire is low and rounded, and the whorls are slightly convex and separated by distinct sutures. The aperture is large and oval-shaped, with a well-developed peristome. The operculum is thick and calcareous, with a central, circular nucleus.

Habitat and Occurrence

Turbo haynesi is a common inhabitant of rocky reefs and coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. It is typically found in the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal waters, often in areas with strong currents. Its distribution extends from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. This wide range places Turbo haynesi in various marine zones, including the neritic zone, the coastal zone, and the subtropical zone, depending on its specific location.

Taxonomy

Turbo haynesi is classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Trochida, and Family: Turbinidae. This classification places it among a diverse group of snails characterized by their spiral shells and their ability to retract their head and foot into the shell for protection.

Feeding

Turbo haynesi is a herbivore, feeding primarily on algae that grows on rocks and coral reefs. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure in its mouth with rows of teeth, to scrape algae off surfaces.

Associated Species

Image References

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