Acmaeidae

Acmaeidae is a family of small, limpet-like sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Patellogastropoda. They are commonly known as true limpets or top shells. Acmaeidae is the only family in the superfamily Acmaeoidea. The family is classified in the superfamily Patellogastropoda, which is classified in the order Patellogastropoda. The order Patellogastropoda is classified in the subclass Vetigastropoda, which is classified in the class Gastropoda, which is classified in the phylum Mollusca.

Acmaea juanina

Whitecap Limpet, Dunce Cap Limpet – Acmaea mitra

Common Names

Acmaeidae are commonly called true limpets or top shells. Other common names include keyhole limpets, rippled limpets, shield limpets, and slipper limpets. However, many of these names are also used for other limpet species in different families.

Characteristics

Acmaeidae are characterized by their conical shells, which are typically smooth and glossy. They have a wide, flat base that adheres tightly to rocks or other hard surfaces. They have a small, pointed apex, which is often eroded or worn down. The shell is typically colored brown, gray, or black, but some species may have colorful markings.

These limpets have a muscular foot that allows them to cling to rocks even in strong currents. They have a radula, which is a ribbon of teeth, that they use to scrape algae and other organic matter from the surface of rocks. They are herbivores and graze on algae, diatoms, and other microscopic organisms.

Environment

Acmaeidae are found in intertidal and subtidal zones worldwide. They prefer rocky shores and reefs with strong currents. They are often found in association with other marine organisms, such as barnacles, sea anemones, and sponges.

References

These references are all reliable and available online: