Voluta ebraea is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Volutidae, the volutes. This species is a popular choice for collectors due to its beautiful shell and unique appearance.
Description & Characteristics
Voluta ebraea has a large, thick, and heavy shell with a distinctive, elongated shape. Its surface is typically smooth and glossy, often with a rich brown or reddish-brown color. The shell can reach a maximum size of around 15 centimeters, making it a substantial and imposing specimen.
Habitat and Occurrence
Voluta ebraea is primarily found in the Mediterranean Sea. It prefers sandy bottoms in shallower waters, often residing in depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters. The species is particularly prevalent in the eastern Mediterranean, making it a significant presence in this region’s marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Voluta ebraea is classified within the taxonomic hierarchy of Gastropoda, the snails and slugs, and further categorized under the Neogastropoda order. This order encompasses a large and diverse group of predatory marine snails. Voluta ebraea belongs to the family Volutidae, a family known for its distinctive spiral shells and often vibrant color patterns.
Feeding
Voluta ebraea is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on other marine organisms, particularly polychaete worms. These worms are a common prey item for many marine gastropods, and Voluta ebraea is no exception, utilizing its specialized radula to capture and consume these burrowing invertebrates.
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