Vexillum inerme is a species of small sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Costellariidae. This species is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, primarily in the shallow waters of tropical and subtropical marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
The shell of Vexillum inerme is typically elongated and fusiform, with a pointed apex and a slightly expanded aperture. It exhibits a smooth, glossy surface, often with faint spiral lines or ridges. The color of the shell can vary, but it is generally a pale brown or cream, sometimes with darker brown markings. The maximum size of Vexillum inerme is approximately 20 mm.
Habitat and Occurrence
Vexillum inerme is found in a variety of marine environments, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region. This species is commonly encountered in shallow, sandy or muddy bottoms, often associated with coral reefs and seagrass beds. It can also be found in rocky shores and estuaries. The depth range for Vexillum inerme typically extends from the intertidal zone down to depths of around 50 meters. It is considered a benthic species, meaning it lives on the bottom of the seafloor.
Taxonomy
Vexillum inerme belongs to the family Costellariidae, a group of marine snails known for their intricate shell patterns and their association with sandy and muddy substrates. It is classified within the order Neogastropoda, which includes a diverse array of predatory and scavenging gastropods. This order, in turn, is part of the larger class Gastropoda, which encompasses a vast range of mollusks with a single, spirally coiled shell.
Feeding
Vexillum inerme is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on small invertebrates, such as worms, crustaceans, and other mollusks. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and tear its prey.
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