Calthalotia
Calthalotia is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Trochidae, the top snails. The genus was introduced by Henry Adams in 1863. The common name “topshells” is frequently used for all members of the family Trochidae, but the name can also refer to members of the family Turbinidae, which are closely related to the Trochidae.
Common names
Common names for species in the genus Calthalotia include:
- Calico topshell
- Painted topshell
Characteristics
Species in the genus Calthalotia are characterized by their distinctive shell shape, which is typically conical and often has a prominent spire. The shell surface is usually smooth or finely sculptured, and it is often brightly colored with patterns of stripes, spots, or blotches. The aperture of the shell is typically round or oval, and it is often surrounded by a thickened lip.
These snails are herbivorous and feed primarily on algae. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape algae off rocks and other surfaces.
Environment
Calthalotia species are found in a variety of marine environments, including rocky shores, tide pools, and coral reefs. They are typically found in shallow waters, but some species can live in deeper waters as well. They are commonly encountered in the Indo-Pacific region.