Pyramidellidae
Pyramidellidae is a family of small sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Pyramidelloidea. Members of the Pyramidellidae are commonly known as “pyramids” due to their distinctive pyramidal shell shape. These tiny snails, often less than 1 cm in length, are abundant and diverse, with over 1,000 described species found in various marine habitats worldwide. Their small size and delicate shells make them challenging to identify, but they play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.
Characteristics
Pyramidellidae possess several key characteristics that distinguish them from other gastropod families:
- Shell shape: Their shell is typically conical or pyramidal, often with a pointed apex and a slightly flared aperture.
- Operculum: They have a small, thin operculum (a protective plate covering the shell opening) that is usually multispiral and paucispiral.
- Radula: The radula, a chitinous ribbon-like structure used for feeding, is characterized by numerous small, sharp teeth adapted for scraping and consuming food.
- Parasitism: Many species are ectoparasites, meaning they live on the exterior of other marine animals, primarily polychaete worms and other mollusks, feeding on their body fluids.
Habitat and Ecology
Pyramidellidae are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea habitats. Their distribution is global, with species inhabiting both warm tropical and cold temperate waters. They are often associated with specific host organisms, contributing to the intricate web of relationships within marine ecosystems.
References
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