Tonnidae
The Tonnidae, commonly known as tun shells or tuns, are a family of large, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Tonnoidea. These marine snails are known for their distinctive, often massive shells. They are found in a variety of habitats, including shallow coastal waters and deeper oceanic environments. They are carnivores, feeding primarily on other mollusks.
Common Names
Members of the Tonnidae family are commonly known as tun shells or tuns. Other common names include:
- Frog shells
- Trumpet shells
- Pear shells
- Sea boots
- Giant tun shells
Characteristics
Tonnidae shells are typically large, heavy, and often thick. They can range in size from a few centimeters to over 30 cm in length. The shells are usually ovoid in shape and have a large, open aperture. The outer lip is usually thickened and often has a flared or expanded margin. The surface of the shell may be smooth, ribbed, or ornamented with spines or nodules.
Environments
Tonnidae snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Shallow coastal waters
- Rocky shores
- Sand flats
- Seagrass beds
- Deeper oceanic environments