Personidae
Personidae is a family of marine gastropods within the superfamily Conoidea. These predatory snails are known for their colorful shells and distinctive cone-shaped bodies. They are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, but some species can be found in temperate regions.
Common Names
Members of the Personidae family are commonly referred to as "cone snails" or "cone shells". They are sometimes called "cone shells" due to their cone-shaped shells.
Characteristics
Personidae species share several characteristics, including:
- A cone-shaped shell with a pointed apex
- A narrow aperture with a distinct siphonal canal
- A highly developed radula with a single, sharp, venomous tooth used to paralyze prey
- A distinctive spiral pattern on the shell surface, often with vibrant colors and intricate markings
- A muscular foot used for locomotion and burying in sand
Environments
Personidae species inhabit a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
- Sandy bottoms
- Rocky shores
They are typically found in shallow waters, but some species can occur at depths of up to 100 meters.