Semicassis
Semicassis is a genus of medium to large sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Cassidae, the helmet shells.
Common Names
These snails are commonly known as helmet shells, a name they share with other members of the Cassidae family.
Characteristics
Semicassis species are characterized by their thick, heavy shells, which often have a helmet-like shape. They typically have a smooth, glossy surface with a wide aperture. Some species may have bumps or ridges on their shells.
Environments
Semicassis snails are found in warm, shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They typically live on sandy or muddy bottoms, often near coral reefs. These snails are carnivorous and feed primarily on other mollusks, which they crush with their powerful jaws.
Species
The genus Semicassis includes several species, some of the most well-known include:
- Semicassis granulata (Schröter, 1798) - The Granulated Helmet
- Semicassis bisulcata (Schröter, 1798) - The Bisulcate Helmet
- Semicassis cornuta (Linnaeus, 1758) - The Horned Helmet
- Semicassis pyrum (Lamarck, 1816) - The Pear Helmet