Cyproidea
Cyproidea is a superfamily of marine bivalves that are commonly referred to as “cypraeids,” “cowries,” or “money cowries.” These mollusks are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. The most recognizable characteristic of cowries is their smooth, glossy, and highly polished shell, which is often adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. This shell is unique among bivalves, as it is dorsal-ventrally flattened and has a narrow opening, called the aperture, on one side.
Characteristics
Cyproidea are characterized by their distinctive shell morphology, which is significantly different from most other bivalves. The shell is:
- Dorsal-ventrally flattened: Unlike most bivalves that are laterally compressed, cowries have a shell that is flattened from top to bottom.
- Highly polished and smooth: The shell surface is smooth and glossy, often with a high degree of polish.
- Narrow aperture: The opening of the shell, known as the aperture, is located on one side and is relatively narrow compared to other bivalves.
- Elaborate patterns and colors: Cowrie shells are often adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, which vary depending on the species.
Environments
Cyproidea are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, inhabiting a variety of environments, including:
- Coral reefs: Cowries are common inhabitants of coral reefs, where they utilize the crevices and coral structures for shelter and foraging.
- Rocky shores: Some species can be found on rocky shores, where they hide amongst rocks and algae.
- Sandy bottoms: Cyproidea are also found in sandy environments, where they burrow beneath the sediment for protection.