Acanthina
Acanthina is a genus of predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails. They are carnivorous, feeding on other mollusks such as barnacles and mussels. This genus is found in the eastern Pacific Ocean, along the coasts of North and South America.
Common Names
Members of the genus Acanthina are commonly called "spiny snails" or "acanthina snails" due to their spiny shells. Some species may also be called "rock snails" or "mussel snails".
Characteristics
Acanthina snails are characterized by their distinctive, conical shells with prominent, sharp spines. The shells are typically brown or grayish in color, often with a pattern of darker bands or spots. They have a pointed apex and a wide, open aperture. These snails are relatively small, with most species reaching a length of 2 to 4 centimeters. Their bodies are also covered in spines, which help to protect them from predators.
Acanthina snails are highly adapted for their predatory lifestyle. They possess a strong, muscular foot that allows them to cling tightly to rocks and other surfaces. They also have a sharp, radula, a tongue-like structure covered in teeth, which they use to drill into the shells of their prey.
Environments
Acanthina snails live in intertidal and subtidal habitats, typically on rocky shores. They are commonly found in areas with strong wave action. They prefer to live in areas with plenty of prey, such as barnacles, mussels, and other snails.
References
For further information on Acanthina, please refer to the following resources: