Vexillum daedalum is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Costellariidae. This species is known for its intricate shell patterns and is a sought-after specimen by collectors.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Vexillum daedalum is characterized by its elongated, fusiform shape, with a pointed apex and a slightly expanded aperture. The shell surface is adorned with intricate, often zig-zagging, spiral ribs, giving the species its name. The color of the shell can vary, ranging from shades of brown and orange to cream or white, often with darker brown or reddish markings. This intricate pattern can be very complex and highly variable, adding to the uniqueness of individual specimens. The maximum size of Vexillum daedalum can reach approximately 30 millimeters in length, though most specimens are typically smaller.
Habitat and Occurrence
Vexillum daedalum is a marine snail that prefers warm, tropical waters. Its distribution is concentrated primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like the Philippines, Indonesia, and parts of the western Pacific Ocean. This species is typically found in shallow water habitats, often residing among coral reefs, rocky outcrops, or sandy bottoms. They prefer to inhabit the neritic zone, the coastal region of the ocean extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. This zone is characterized by its relatively shallow depths and the presence of abundant marine life.
Taxonomy
Vexillum daedalum is classified within the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses a diverse group of mollusks that includes snails, slugs, and sea hares. It belongs to the Order Neogastropoda, which contains a wide array of predatory or scavenging gastropods. Within this order, it is further classified within the family Costellariidae, a group known for their characteristically ribbed and often brightly colored shells.
Feeding
Vexillum daedalum is a carnivorous species that feeds on small invertebrates. Their feeding habits are likely to involve the capture of small crustaceans, worms, or other mollusks. The snail likely employs a combination of its radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, and its muscular proboscis to capture and consume its prey.
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