Terebratulina
Terebratulina is a genus of brachiopods belonging to the family Terebratulidae. These small, bivalved marine animals are characterized by their smooth, oval shells and delicate, often translucent, appearance. They are found in various marine environments worldwide, typically attached to hard substrates. Terebratulina species are often referred to as “lamp shells” due to their shape resembling an ancient oil lamp.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Terebratulina typically exhibit the following characteristics:
- Shell Shape: Oval, often with a slightly elongated dorsal valve.
- Shell Surface: Smooth, sometimes with fine radial striations.
- Shell Color: White, yellowish, or pinkish, often translucent.
- Size: Usually small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length.
- Lophophore: A horseshoe-shaped feeding structure located within the mantle cavity.
- Pedicle: A fleshy stalk that attaches the brachiopod to the substrate.
Environments
Terebratulina species are found in various marine environments, including:
- Intertidal Zones: Along coastlines, attached to rocks, shells, or seaweed.
- Subtidal Zones: At depths ranging from a few meters to several hundred meters.
- Continental Shelves: On the relatively shallow, gently sloping seabed near continents.
References
For further information on Terebratulina, refer to the following websites: