Cystiscus

Cystiscus is a genus of very small sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Cystiscidae. These snails are commonly known as “bubble snails” due to their thin, translucent shells that resemble bubbles. They are often brightly colored and have a distinctive, pearlescent sheen. Cystiscus snails are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, living on coral reefs and in sandy bottoms.

Minute Margin Shell – Cystiscus minutissimus

Characteristics

Members of the genus Cystiscus are characterized by their small, globose shells that are typically less than 5 mm in diameter. These shells are often brightly colored and patterned with intricate designs, often featuring a pearlescent sheen. The shells are also very thin and fragile, making them susceptible to breakage.

Habitat and Distribution

Cystiscus snails are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, often in shallow waters near coral reefs. They are also found on sandy bottoms and in seagrass beds. They are often found buried in the sand or under rocks, hiding from predators.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Cystiscus snails are carnivores and feed primarily on other small invertebrates, such as plankton and other snails. Their radula, a toothed structure in their mouth, is specialized for scraping and tearing food.

Reproduction

Cystiscus snails are hermaphrodites, meaning they possess both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce by laying eggs, which are typically laid in clusters on the underside of rocks or on other hard surfaces.

Notable Species

Some notable species of Cystiscus include:

  • Cystiscus adamsi
  • Cystiscus bulla
  • Cystiscus californicus
  • Cystiscus clypeus
  • Cystiscus erythraeus
  • Cystiscus humilis
  • Cystiscus insculptus
  • Cystiscus minor
  • Cystiscus mundus
  • Cystiscus ovum
  • Cystiscus punctatus
  • Cystiscus smaragdus
  • Cystiscus subglobosus
  • Cystiscus tristis

References