Costellariidae

Costellariidae is a family of predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Conoidea. Costellariidae is sometimes referred to as the “ribbed miters,” a group of over 200 species in 24 genera. They are typically small to medium-sized snails with a distinctive, ribbed or costate shell. Costellariidae are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, living in a variety of habitats, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea environments.

Vexillum plicarium

Vexillum vulpecula

Vexillum acupictum

Vexillum cancellarioides

Regal Mitre, Regal Miter, Queen Mitre – Vexillum citrinum

Vexillum stainforthii

Vexillum inerme

Vexillum jukesii

Vexillum adamsi

Vexillum coccineum

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Common Names

Costellariidae are commonly known as ribbed miters, ribbed mitre shells, ribbed mitre snails, or costulate mitres.

Characteristics

Members of the Costellariidae family share a number of distinguishing features, including:

  • Shell: Conical, often with a pointed apex, and typically ornamented with prominent ribs or costae that run longitudinally along the shell. The shell is usually smooth and glossy, sometimes with a faint, spiral sculpture.
  • Aperture: Long and narrow, with a distinctive notch at the base of the columella.
  • Columella: The central axis of the shell, often with a series of folds or teeth.
  • Operculum: A horny plate covering the opening of the shell, typically present in Costellariidae.

Environment

Costellariidae are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Shallow intertidal zones: Some species live in the shallows, among rocks, algae, and other marine life.
  • Subtidal zones: Many species live in deeper waters, on sandy or muddy bottoms.
  • Deep-sea environments: Some species are found in very deep waters, on the continental shelf and slopes.

References