Amphissa
Amphissa is a genus of small, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Columbellidae, the dove snails. This genus includes many different species, with a diverse range of colors and patterns. They are commonly known as amphillas or amphillas snails.
Characteristics
Amphillas are generally small, ranging in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter or two. Their shells are typically elongated and conical, with a pointed apex. They exhibit a wide variety of colors, including shades of white, brown, yellow, and orange. The shells are often decorated with spots, bands, or spiral lines. They are distinguished by the following characteristics:
- Slender, elongated shells
- Pointed apex
- Smooth or sculpted surface
- Variable coloration, often with spots or bands
- Operculum present
Habitat and Ecology
Amphissa species inhabit a variety of marine environments, including rocky shores, sandy bottoms, and seagrass beds. They are generally found in shallow water, but some species have been reported at depths of up to 100 meters. These snails are carnivorous, feeding primarily on other small mollusks, worms, and crustaceans. They use their radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, to scrape food from surfaces.
Distribution
Amphissa is a cosmopolitan genus, with species found in all major oceans. They are particularly abundant in temperate and subtropical waters. The distribution of individual species can vary significantly, with some species being restricted to specific geographic regions.
References
For further information on Amphissa, refer to the following sources: