Kraussina

Kraussina is a genus of marine gastropods in the family Trochidae, commonly known as top shells. They are small, brightly colored snails with a distinctive, conical shell. These snails are widespread in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. They are herbivorous, feeding mainly on algae.

Kraussina rubra

Common Names

Common names for Kraussina species include:

  • Top shells
  • Trochus shells
  • Turban shells

Characteristics

Kraussina snails have the following distinguishing characteristics:

  • Shell: Conical, typically with a smooth, glossy surface and a pointed apex. The shell may be ornamented with spiral ridges or grooves.
  • Coloration: Varied, often displaying vibrant colors and patterns.
  • Size: Relatively small, with most species reaching a maximum shell size of 2-4 centimeters.
  • Operculum: A calcareous plate that covers the opening of the shell when the animal retracts.

Environments

Kraussina species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Coral reefs
  • Rocky shores
  • Sandy bottoms
  • Seagrass meadows

They are typically found in shallow water, but some species may occur at depths of up to 50 meters.

References

For further information on Kraussina, refer to the following reliable resources: