Lambis

Characteristics

Members of the Lambis genus typically possess a large, heavy shell with a pointed spire and a flared outer lip. The shell surface is often adorned with prominent spines, ridges, or knobs, providing camouflage and protection. Their foot is broad and muscular, allowing them to crawl and burrow into the sand or mud.

The most notable feature of Lambis shells is the presence of "digital processes," long, slender projections that resemble fingers or claws. These processes can vary in number and shape depending on the species. They play a role in the snail's ability to maneuver and burrow, as well as providing extra defense against predators.

Environments

Lambis species inhabit tropical and subtropical waters, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region. They are commonly found in shallow coastal areas, such as seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and muddy estuaries. These snails are often found in areas with soft sediment, where they can burrow and hide from predators.

Diet

Lambis are herbivorous, primarily feeding on algae, seagrasses, and other plant matter. They use their radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, to scrape off vegetation and ingest it.

Reproduction

Lambis snails are dioecious, meaning they have separate sexes. Females lay capsules containing numerous eggs, which hatch into free-swimming larvae. The larvae eventually settle to the bottom and develop into juvenile snails.

Species

The Lambis genus includes several recognized species, including:

• Lambis lambis (Giant Spider Conch)
• Lambis truncata (Helmet Conch)
• Lambis scorpio (Scorpion Conch)
• Lambis millepeda (Thousand-footed Conch)
• Lambis chiragra (Crested Spider Conch)

References

Further information on Lambis can be found in these reliable references:

• World Register of Marine Species
• The Nautilus, Vol. 84, No. 3, pp. 89-96
• ScienceDirect - Lambis