Rissoa
Rissoa is a genus of small sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Rissoidae. They are often called “rissoids” and are found worldwide in a variety of marine environments. They are typically small, with shells ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter in length. Rissoids are often overlooked due to their small size, but they are a diverse and important part of marine ecosystems.
Common Names
Common names for Rissoa snails include "rissoids," "rissoa snails," and "tiny snails." Some species may have more specific common names depending on their location or appearance.
Characteristics
Rissoa snails have distinctive characteristics that help to identify them:
- Small size: Most species are less than 10 mm in length.
- Turbinate shells: Their shells are typically conical or top-shaped, with a pointed apex.
- Smooth or sculptured shells: Some species have smooth shells, while others have ridges, spiral cords, or other ornamentation.
- Variable coloration: Rissoa snails can be a variety of colors, including white, brown, gray, and reddish-brown.
Environments
Rissoa snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones: They can be found on rocky shores, sand flats, and mudflats.
- Subtidal zones: Some species live in deeper waters, often associated with algae or seagrass.
- Estuaries: Rissoa snails are found in brackish water environments, such as estuaries and lagoons.
References
For further information, see the following resources: