Microcyphus
Microcyphus is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails. This genus is not as well-known as others in the family, and it is believed that its members are part of a wider range of marine mollusks that are currently being classified.
Common Names
There are no common names for the species within this genus.
Characteristics
These gastropods are classified as belonging to the subclass Caenogastropoda within the class Gastropoda. Microcyphus species have the following characteristics:
- They have a distinctive shell morphology, with a conical, somewhat rounded spire and a distinct, sometimes elongated siphonal canal.
- The outer lip of the shell is typically thick and often has strong teeth or projections.
- The surface of the shell can be smooth or have a variety of sculptural features, such as spines, ridges, or nodules.
- They are carnivorous and typically feed on other marine invertebrates, including other mollusks.
Environment
Microcyphus species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Rocky shores
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
- Deep-sea environments
References
World Register of Marine Species
Global Biodiversity Information Facility