The Zigzag Cowry – Palmadusta ziczac, also known as the Zigzag Cowrie, is a species of sea snail that is a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Cypraeidae, the cowries.
Description & Characteristics
The Palmadusta ziczac is a medium-sized cowry, reaching a maximum length of about 35 mm. The shell is oval-shaped with a smooth, glossy surface. It is characterized by a distinctive pattern of white zigzag lines on a brown background. The shell is also typically adorned with small, dark brown spots. The dorsal surface of the shell is convex, while the ventral surface is flat. The aperture is narrow and elongated, with a sharp edge. The teeth on the aperture are small and numerous.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Zigzag Cowry is typically found in shallow, warm water habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds. It is particularly common in the Indo-Pacific region, where it ranges from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Pacific Ocean. Palmadusta ziczac is often found in the intertidal zone, but it can also be found at depths of up to 20 meters.
Taxonomy
The Zigzag Cowry is classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, and Family: Cypraeidae. This family encompasses numerous species known collectively as cowries, which are renowned for their beautiful and often intricate shells.
Feeding
The Palmadusta ziczac is an omnivore and feeds on a variety of organisms, including algae, sponges, and small invertebrates. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape food off surfaces.
Image References