Lottia
Lottia is a genus of small, intertidal marine snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Lottiidae, the limpets. These snails are commonly called limpets or true limpets, and are distinguished by their conical shell, which adheres tightly to rocks and other hard surfaces. They are found along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean, playing a significant role in intertidal ecosystems.
Common Names
The common names for Lottia species include:
- Limpets
- True limpets
Characteristics
Lottia species are characterized by the following features:
- Conical shell: Their shells are typically conical, with a low, rounded apex.
- Strong muscle: They possess a strong, muscular foot that allows them to adhere tightly to rocks.
- Grazing: They are herbivores, grazing on algae and diatoms.
- Home scar: They often create a "home scar" on the rock surface, which is a depression where they rest.
Environment
Lottia species are found in the intertidal zone, living on rocky shores that are exposed to the air during low tide. They can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including exposure to sunlight, wave action, and temperature fluctuations.
References
For more detailed information on Lottia, refer to the following websites: