The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra is a striking and relatively common marine snail species found in coastal waters. This species, belonging to the family Volutidae, is easily recognizable by its distinctive zebra-like pattern of dark brown stripes against a cream-colored background.
Description & Characteristics
The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra is a medium-sized marine snail with a fusiform (spindle-shaped) shell. The shell can reach a maximum size of about 70 mm (2.8 inches) in length. Its characteristic pattern of brown stripes running longitudinally along the shell, resembling a zebra’s stripes, is a key feature for identification. The shell is relatively smooth, with a slightly flared lip at the opening. The aperture (opening) of the shell is elongated and narrow. The spire (top part of the shell) is typically pointed and conical.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra is found in a variety of marine habitats, including the intertidal zone and the tidal zone. It prefers sandy sea floors and can be found at depths ranging from the surface to around 30 meters (100 feet). This species is typically found in shallow, sheltered waters, where it can burrow into the sediment. The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra can be found in various marine zones, including the neritic zone and the coastal zone.
Taxonomy
The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Volutidae. This classification indicates that it is a gastropod, a large and diverse group of mollusks characterized by a single, usually spiraled shell. Neogastropoda represents an order within Gastropoda, encompassing predatory marine snails. The family Volutidae, to which the Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra belongs, is a group of marine snails with characteristically thick, often brightly colored shells.
Feeding
The Zebra Volute – Amoria zebra is a carnivore and a predator. It feeds primarily on other marine invertebrates, particularly zoobenthos (animals that live on the seafloor). Its feeding behavior involves extending a long, flexible proboscis to capture and ingest prey.
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