Cymatium
Cymatium is a genus of medium to large-sized sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Ranellidae, the triton snails. The genus Cymatium is found worldwide. There are over 100 recognized species in the genus Cymatium.
Common names
Members of this genus are known by a variety of common names, including:
- Triton's trumpet
- Triton shells
- False tritons
- Cymatiums
Characteristics
Cymatium shells have a characteristic elongated, spindle-shaped form. They are typically thick and heavy, with a pointed spire and a wide, flared aperture. The exterior of the shell is often covered in nodules or spines. The aperture is usually wide and oval-shaped, with a siphonal canal at the base. The operculum is small and corneous.
Environments
Cymatium species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Rocky shores
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
- Sand flats