Melo

Melo is a genus of large, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs in the family Volutidae, the volutes. This genus is also known by the common names “baler shells”, “triton’s trumpets”, “volute shells”, “volute snails” and “ship’s trumpets”.

Southern Bailer – Melo miltonis

Description

These are large, thick-shelled marine gastropods with a distinctive, elongated, spindle-shaped shell. The spire is low and the aperture is wide, often with a long, narrow siphonal canal. The outer lip of the aperture is often thickened and may be toothed. The shell surface is usually smooth but can be ornamented with ridges, folds, or spines.

These snails are carnivorous and prey on other molluscs, particularly other sea snails. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape their prey's shells. Some species are known to be cannibalistic, feeding on other Melo species.

Distribution and Habitat

Melo species are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. They inhabit sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow to moderate depths.

Species

The genus Melo includes the following species:

  • Melo amphora
  • Melo broderipii
  • Melo canaliculata
  • Melo diadema
  • Melo gigas (Giant Triton's Trumpet)
  • Melo indica
  • Melo infundibulum
  • Melo melo (Common Baler Shell)
  • Melo miltonis
  • Melo nautilus
  • Melo nobilis
  • Melo sulcata
  • Melo umbilicata
  • Melo zebra

References