Vexillum cancellarioides

, Vexillum cancellarioides

Vexillum cancellarioides is a species of small sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Costellariidae. It is a relatively common and widespread species found in various marine environments.

Description & Characteristics

Vexillum cancellarioides exhibits a distinctive shell shape, characterized by its elongated and slender form, resembling a small, delicate spindle. The shell surface is adorned with intricate patterns of fine ridges and grooves, reminiscent of a cancellated latticework. The color of the shell can vary, but it is often a creamy white to pale brown hue, sometimes with subtle shades of orange or pink.

Habitat and Occurrence

Vexillum cancellarioides is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting a wide range of marine environments. It is typically found in shallow waters, often residing on sandy bottoms or among coral reefs. This snail is particularly prevalent in the neritic zone, which encompasses the coastal waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. This area is characterized by its relatively shallow depths and abundance of sunlight, providing ideal conditions for the snail’s survival.

Taxonomy

Vexillum cancellarioides belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Costellariidae. This classification places it within a group of predatory marine snails known for their characteristically elongated and often intricately patterned shells. The family Costellariidae is further divided into various genera, with Vexillum representing a notable group distinguished by their distinct shell shapes and habitat preferences.

Feeding

Vexillum cancellarioides is a carnivorous snail, relying on a diet of small invertebrates for sustenance. Its feeding habits are primarily focused on consuming polychaetes, a diverse group of segmented worms that inhabit a wide range of marine environments. The snail uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure studded with teeth, to scrape and capture its prey. This specialized feeding apparatus allows Vexillum cancellarioides to effectively extract nutrients from its prey, contributing to its survival and ecological role within the marine ecosystem.

Associated Species

Image References

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