Characteristics
Tritons are characterized by their large, heavy shells, often with intricate patterns and colors. The shell is typically ovate or fusiform in shape, with a distinct siphonal canal that extends beyond the aperture. The aperture is wide and usually has a thickened outer lip. They are carnivorous, feeding on other marine organisms, including other snails, crustaceans, and worms.
The shell of a triton is divided into three main parts: the whorls, the spire, and the siphonal canal. The whorls are the spirally arranged sections of the shell, which increase in size as they move away from the spire. The spire is the pointed apex of the shell, formed by the earliest whorls. The siphonal canal is a long, narrow channel at the base of the shell, which allows the animal to siphon water for respiration and feeding.
Environments
Tritons are found in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. They typically live in shallow waters, but some species have been found at depths of up to 1,000 meters. They are often found in areas with abundant food sources, such as coral reefs.
Common Names
Tritons are commonly referred to as "triton's trumpet" due to the shape of their shell, which resembles a trumpet. They are also known as "triton's shell" or simply "triton".
References
For more information, refer to the following online resources: