Epitoniidae
Epitoniidae, commonly known as wentletraps, are a family of small to medium-sized sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Epitonioidea. Wentletraps are characterized by their distinctive, often beautiful, spiral shells with prominent, often beaded, ribs. They are a diverse group, with over 300 described species.
Common Names
Wentletraps are also known by other common names, including "staircase shells" and "sundial shells," alluding to the spiral staircase-like appearance of their shells.
Characteristics
Epitoniidae are generally small to medium-sized snails, with shell sizes ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Their shells are typically elongated and spiral, with a pointed apex and a wide, open aperture. The most prominent characteristic of wentletrap shells is the presence of prominent, often beaded, ribs that run longitudinally along the shell. These ribs are responsible for the distinctive staircase-like appearance of the shell.
The color of wentletrap shells is highly variable and can range from white or cream to brown, pink, or orange. Some species exhibit intricate patterns of bands or spots on their shells.
Environment
Wentletraps are found in a wide variety of marine environments, including shallow waters, deep-sea trenches, and coral reefs. They are typically found attached to other marine organisms, such as corals, sponges, and sea anemones.
Feeding Habits
Wentletraps are carnivorous, feeding primarily on sessile invertebrates like bryozoans, hydroids, and other small animals they find on their host. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape their prey off of their surfaces.
References
* Wikipedia: Epitoniidae* World Register of Marine Species: Epitoniidae* Discover Life: Epitoniidae