Nassa
Nassa is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Nassariidae, the nassa mud snails or dog whelks. The species in this genus are predatory carnivores, feeding primarily on other mollusks.
Common Names
The species within Nassa are commonly known as nassa mud snails or dog whelks. The name "dog whelk" is shared with other members of the family Nassariidae.
Characteristics
Nassa snails have a characteristically elongated, pointed shell with a distinct siphonal canal. The shell surface can be smooth or sculpted with ridges, spines, or knobs. Their color varies depending on the species, ranging from brown, gray, or white to reddish or even black. They are typically small to medium-sized, with adult sizes ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length.
Like other Nassariids, Nassa snails have a radula, a ribbon-like structure in their mouth containing rows of teeth-like structures that they use to scrape food off surfaces.
Environment
Nassa snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Shallow subtidal areas
- Sandy or muddy bottoms
- Seagrass beds
- Rocky shores
They are often found buried in the sediment, with only their siphon protruding, waiting to ambush their prey.