Lottiidae
Lottiidae is a family of marine snails, commonly known as limpets. Limpets are gastropods with a conical shell and a broad, flat foot. They are found in intertidal and subtidal zones worldwide, clinging to rocks and other hard surfaces. There are over 500 species of limpets, divided into several genera within the Lottiidae family.
Characteristics
Lottiidae are characterized by their distinctive conical shell, which is usually smooth and often patterned with radial lines or stripes. They have a broad, flat foot that allows them to adhere tightly to rocks and other surfaces. The foot also enables them to move slowly but effectively across their habitat. The mouth of a limpet contains a radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth that is used to scrape algae and other food particles from surfaces.
Environment
Limpets are found in intertidal and subtidal zones throughout the world. They prefer rocky habitats where they can attach themselves to hard surfaces. They are often found in clusters, with individual limpets forming their own territories.
Feeding
Lottiidae are herbivores, feeding primarily on algae. They use their radula to scrape algae from rocks and other surfaces. Some species of limpets are known to feed on specific types of algae, while others are more generalist feeders.
Reproduction
Lottiidae reproduce sexually, with males releasing sperm into the water, which is then taken up by females. The eggs are fertilized internally and then laid in capsules, often attached to rocks or other surfaces. The young limpets emerge from the capsules and begin to graze on algae shortly after hatching.
Examples
Some common examples of Lottiidae species include:
- Patella vulgata (Common limpet)
- Lottia gigantea (Giant limpet)
- Acmaea testudinalis (Common Acmaea)