Cancellariidae
The Cancellariidae are a family of small to medium-sized predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Cancellarioidea. These snails are known for their distinctive, often beautifully ornamented shells.
Common Names
Members of the Cancellariidae are commonly referred to as "Cancellarias" or "Canceliids." They are also sometimes called "Net-shell snails" due to the intricate, grid-like patterns on their shells.
Characteristics
Cancellariidae shells are typically small to medium-sized, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length. They are usually ovate to fusiform in shape, with a pointed spire and a relatively short aperture. One of their most characteristic features is the prominent, cancellate sculpture on their shells. This consists of numerous, raised, intersecting ridges and grooves that create a net-like pattern. These ridges and grooves are often arranged in a regular pattern, which can be quite beautiful.
The operculum is thin, horny, and usually has a nucleus near the center.
Environments
Cancellariidae are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea waters. They are often found in sandy or muddy bottoms, among algae, or under rocks. They are carnivorous and feed on other small invertebrates, such as polychaetes and crustaceans.