Cuspivolva
Cuspivolva is a genus of small, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Ovulidae, the ovulids or egg cowries. The genus contains 11 species, all of which are found in the Indo-Pacific region.
Common Names
Common names for Cuspivolva species include:
- Cuspivolva
- Egg Cowry
- Dwarf Cowry
Characteristics
Cuspivolva species are characterized by their small size, typically less than 10 mm in length. Their shells are smooth and glossy, with a distinctive, pointed apex. The aperture is narrow and elongated, and the outer lip is usually thickened and slightly flared.
The color of Cuspivolva shells can vary depending on the species, but they are often brightly colored, with shades of orange, red, yellow, or brown. Some species also have patterns of spots or stripes.
Like other ovulids, Cuspivolva species are predatory and feed on other mollusks, such as tunicates, bryozoans, and other snails. They use their radula, a ribbon of teeth, to scrape off the flesh of their prey.
Environments
Cuspivolva species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
- Rocky shores
They are typically found in shallow water, but some species can be found at depths of up to 100 meters.
References
For further information on Cuspivolva, please refer to the following reliable sources: