Olivancillaria
Olivancillaria is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Olividae, the olives. Olivancillaria species are known as “olive shells”.
Common Names
These snails are also known as "olive shells".
Characteristics
Olivancillaria shells are typically small to medium in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. The shells are generally ovate or spindle-shaped, with a smooth, glossy surface. They are often brightly colored, with patterns of spots, stripes, or bands. The aperture (the opening of the shell) is narrow and elongated, and the outer lip is usually thickened and often has a tooth-like structure near the base.
Like other olives, Olivancillaria species are carnivorous and feed on other marine invertebrates, including worms, clams, and other snails. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape and tear their prey.
Environments
Olivancillaria snails are found in a variety of marine habitats, including sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, and seagrass meadows. They are typically found in shallow waters, but some species can be found at depths of up to 100 meters.
Distribution
Olivancillaria species are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, with a particularly high diversity in the Indo-Pacific region.