Cycloneritida
Cycloneritida is a taxonomic order of marine snails, commonly known as neritid snails, that belongs to the class Gastropoda. They are characterized by their unique, typically globose shells with a distinctive, often spiral, pattern. Cycloneritida are found in diverse marine environments, particularly in tropical and subtropical waters. These snails exhibit a remarkable variety in size, shape, and coloration, contributing to their aesthetic appeal and ecological importance.
Common Names
The order Cycloneritida is commonly referred to as "neritid snails," a name derived from the type genus Nerita. Other common names include "nerites" and "nerita snails."
Characteristics
Cycloneritida are characterized by the following features:
- Globose, often spiral shells: The shells of Cycloneritida are typically globular, with a well-defined spiral pattern. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is often rounded and relatively large.
- Operculum: Cycloneritida possess a calcified operculum, a hard, plate-like structure that closes the aperture when the snail retracts into its shell.
- Gill structure: The gills of Cycloneritida are typically comb-shaped, known as ctenidia, and situated within the mantle cavity.
- Feeding: Cycloneritida are herbivores, feeding mainly on algae and other plant matter. Some species may also consume detritus.
- Reproduction: Cycloneritida reproduce sexually, and many species exhibit direct development, meaning that they do not have a free-swimming larval stage.
Environments
Cycloneritida are found in a variety of marine environments, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. They are commonly encountered in:
- Intertidal zones: Many neritid snails are well-adapted to living in the intertidal zone, where they are exposed to fluctuating water levels and salinity.
- Coral reefs: Cycloneritida can be abundant on coral reefs, where they contribute to the reef's ecosystem.
- Rocky shores: Some species are found on rocky shores, clinging to rocks and other hard surfaces.
- Mangrove forests: Neritid snails are also found in mangrove forests, where they inhabit the roots and branches of mangrove trees.
References
For more detailed information about Cycloneritida, consult the following reliable sources: