Terestrombus
Terestrombus is a genus of large sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Strombidae, the true conchs. There are two species recognized in this genus.
Common Names
Species in the genus Terestrombus are commonly known as "queen conchs." This name is often used for both Terestrombus gigas and Terestrombus latus.
Characteristics
Terestrombus species are characterized by their large, heavy shells with a distinctive flared lip. The shell is usually white or cream-colored, often with brown or orange markings. The spire is low and rounded, and the aperture is large and oval.
Environments
Terestrombus snails are found in shallow, tropical waters, typically on sandy bottoms or seagrass beds. They are herbivores and feed on algae.
Species
Two species are recognized in the genus Terestrombus:
- Terestrombus gigas (Linnaeus, 1758)
- Terestrombus latus (Gmelin, 1791)