Gomophia
Gomophia is a genus of marine gastropods in the family Nassariidae. These snails are carnivorous, feeding on other small mollusks. They are found in intertidal and subtidal habitats, typically on rocky shores and reefs. The genus contains several species, most of which are distributed in the Indo-Pacific region.
Common Names
Species within the genus Gomophia are commonly referred to as "nassariids" or "dogwhelks," names that reflect their predatory habits and the often dog-like shape of their shells.
Characteristics
Gomophia snails possess several defining characteristics:
- Shell shape: Typically elongated, with a pointed spire and a broad aperture. The shell surface can be smooth or have various sculpturing, including axial ribs and spiral cords.
- Size: Most species range from 1 to 3 centimeters in length, although some can reach up to 5 centimeters.
- Coloration: Shells are often mottled brown, gray, or reddish-brown, often with darker banding or spots.
- Operculum: Possess a corneous operculum, a tough, horny plate that covers the aperture when the snail retracts into its shell.
- Radula: Like other Nassariidae, they have a radula, a ribbon-like structure in their mouths with rows of teeth used to scrape food.
Environment
Gomophia snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones: Exposed to air and water during the tidal cycle, often hiding under rocks or in crevices.
- Subtidal zones: Living on rocky reefs, seagrass beds, or muddy bottoms.
- Tropical and subtropical waters: Mostly distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, with some species found in the Caribbean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
References
WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species
PubMed - Search for research articles on Gomophia