Kelletia
Kelletia is a genus of predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Buccinidae, the true whelks. The genus includes five species, all found in the Southern Hemisphere. These marine snails are characterized by their relatively large, thick shells, with a distinct shoulder and a long, slender siphonal canal.
Common Names
The common names for Kelletia species are not very widespread. However, they are sometimes referred to as "triton's trumpets" or "whelks."
Characteristics
Kelletia species are typically large, with shell lengths ranging from 4 to 10 centimeters. Their shells are thick, with a distinctive shoulder and a long, slender siphonal canal. The aperture is oval or pear-shaped, and the outer lip is often thickened and flared. The surface of the shell is generally smooth, although it can be ornamented with ridges or spines.
Environment
Kelletia snails are found in the Southern Hemisphere, primarily in the waters off Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. They are generally found in shallow, rocky or sandy bottoms. They are carnivorous, feeding on other mollusks, worms, and crustaceans.
Species
The genus Kelletia contains five recognized species:
- Kelletia kelletii (Gray, 1839) - found off the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
- Kelletia attenuata (Reeve, 1846) - found off the coast of Australia.
- Kelletia comata (Quoy & Gaimard, 1834) - found off the coast of New Zealand.
- Kelletia granulata (Lamarck, 1822) - found off the coast of South Africa.
- Kelletia lamellosa (Sowerby, 1839) - found off the coast of Australia.
References
World Register of Marine Species
Global Biodiversity Information Facility