Acteon
Acteon is a genus of small, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Acteonidae, the bubble snails. These tiny snails are common worldwide, inhabiting a variety of marine environments. They are often referred to as “bubble snails” due to their thin, fragile shells and their tendency to float at the surface of the water when empty.
Common Names
Common names for members of this genus include bubble snails, acteon snails, and acteonidae.
Characteristics
Acteon snails are characterized by their small, thin, and often translucent shells. The shells are typically ovate or conical in shape, with a smooth, glossy surface. The aperture of the shell is large and wide, and the outer lip is often thin and sharp.
These snails are carnivores and feed on other small marine invertebrates, such as polychaetes, crustaceans, and other snails. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure in their mouths, to scrape food from surfaces.
Environments
Acteon snails can be found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Shallow coastal waters
- Estuaries
- Deep-sea trenches
They are often found in soft sediment bottoms, but they can also be found on rocky reefs and seagrass beds.
References
For further information about Acteon snails, refer to these online resources: