Calanticidae
The Calanticidae are a family of marine snails, gastropods in the superfamily Muricoidea. This family is known for its relatively small number of species, with only two genera, Calantica and Festilyra, currently recognized. They are distinguished by their unique shell morphology, which exhibits a combination of features characteristic of both muricids and buccinids, leading to their classification as a distinct family.
Common Names
Calanticidae are not commonly known by any particular common name. However, the individual species within the family may be referred to by their specific names, such as the "banded calantica" (Calantica lamarckii) or the "festive lyra" (Festilyra festiva).
Characteristics
The shells of Calanticidae snails are typically small to medium in size, ranging from a few millimeters to a couple of centimeters in length. They are characterized by the following features:
- Conical shape: The shell has a cone-like form, tapering towards the apex.
- Sculptured surface: The shell surface is often ornamented with ridges, spines, or other sculptural features.
- Variable aperture: The opening of the shell, or aperture, can be round, oval, or elongated, depending on the species.
- Siphonal canal: A canal-like extension of the aperture, called the siphonal canal, is present in some species.
Environments
Calanticidae snails are primarily found in shallow coastal waters, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. They inhabit rocky reefs, coral rubble, and sandy bottoms, where they feed on a variety of small invertebrates. Some species may also occur in deeper waters, down to a few hundred meters.