Margarites
Margarites is a genus of small, brightly colored sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Margaritidae. They are found in the Northern Hemisphere in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. These snails are typically found in the intertidal zone or subtidal zones and are characterized by their small, globose shells with a distinctive, pearly luster. They are known for their diverse coloration and patterns, often exhibiting striking blends of white, orange, red, and brown.
Common Names
Margarites snails are commonly referred to as "pearl snails" due to the iridescent, pearly sheen of their shells.
Characteristics
Margarites snails possess the following distinctive characteristics:
- Shell: Small, globose, and often with a depressed spire. The shell surface can be smooth or ornamented with ribs, spiral cords, or other sculptural features.
- Aperture: Rounded, with a distinct lip that is often thickened and reflected.
- Operculum: Present and typically thin, corneous, and multispiral.
- Coloration: Highly variable, ranging from white and cream to shades of orange, red, brown, and even black. Many species display intricate patterns and color combinations.
Environments
Margarites snails are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:
- Intertidal zone: They can be found on rocks, seaweed, and in tide pools.
- Subtidal zone: They inhabit deeper waters on sand, gravel, and rocky bottoms.
References
For further information about Margarites snails, please refer to the following reliable sources: