The Whitecap Limpet, Dunce Cap Limpet – Acmaea mitra is a fascinating marine gastropod that inhabits the rocky shores of the Pacific Ocean. It is a member of the limpet family, Acmaeidae, known for its distinctive conical shell and its ability to cling tightly to surfaces.
Description & Characteristics
Acmaea mitra is a small, cone-shaped limpet with a smooth, glossy shell. It is typically cream-colored or pale brown, often with dark brown or black markings. The shell can reach up to 25 millimeters in length, with a maximum size of 30 millimeters. This species exhibits a unique characteristic – its shell color can vary depending on the type of algae it consumes. This variability in color adds to the diversity and charm of this species.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acmaea mitra thrives in the intertidal zone and subtidal zones of the Pacific Ocean. It is commonly found clinging to rocks, particularly in areas with coralline soils and coral quarries. This species can be found in both the intertidal and subtidal zones, extending its range from the lower limit of the intertidal zone down to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This extensive depth range classifies the Whitecap Limpet as a neritic species, inhabiting the waters above the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Whitecap Limpet, Dunce Cap Limpet – Acmaea mitra belongs to the family Acmaeidae, a group of limpets known for their conical shells and their ability to cling tightly to surfaces. This family belongs to the larger class Gastropoda, which includes a diverse range of mollusks including snails, slugs, and sea hares.
Feeding
Acmaea mitra is a herbivorous species, feeding primarily on algae. It is considered a food specialist, favoring certain types of algae, which contribute to the variation in its shell coloration. This selective feeding behavior highlights the intricate relationship between Acmaea mitra and its marine environment.
Image References