Haustrum
Haustrum is a genus of marine snails that are classified as sea slugs and belong to the family Pleurobranchidae. These gastropods are commonly known as side-gilled slugs. The genus contains five recognized species, including Haustrum alberti, Haustrum capensis, Haustrum cornutum, Haustrum giganteum, and Haustrum punctiferum.
Characteristics
Haustrum species are characterized by their flattened bodies, typically ranging in size from a few centimeters to over 10 centimeters long. Their bodies are often covered in bumps or ridges, and they have a distinctive mantle that covers their dorsal surface, typically bearing prominent, fleshy protuberances. They possess a single, large gill located under the mantle on their right side, giving them their common name, side-gilled slugs. Their coloration varies between species, with some exhibiting striking patterns and vibrant colors.
Environments
Haustrum snails are found in various marine habitats, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. They inhabit rocky shores, coral reefs, and sandy bottoms. They are often found in shallow water, but some species have been documented at depths of several hundred meters. Their diet consists primarily of algae, which they scrape off rocks and other surfaces with their radula, a specialized tooth-like structure.
References
For more information on Haustrum, you can refer to the following resources: