Tritia
Tritia is a genus of small to medium-sized sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Nassariidae, the nassa mud snails. Tritia species are commonly known as “nassa mud snails,” “dog whelks,” or “pointed snails.”
Characteristics
Tritia species typically have a sturdy, pointed shell with a characteristically elongated spire and a siphonal canal. The shell surface can be smooth, ribbed, or sculptured with various patterns. They range in color from white to brown, often with bands or spots. The aperture (opening) of the shell is usually oval or tear-shaped, and the outer lip is often thickened and toothed.
Environment
Tritia snails are common inhabitants of intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, where they often live buried in sand or mud. They are primarily scavengers, feeding on dead or decaying animal matter. Some species may also be predatory, preying on smaller mollusks and worms.
Distribution
Tritia snails are found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters. They are particularly abundant in the North Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea, and Pacific Ocean.
Common Species
Some common Tritia species include:
- Tritia reticulata (Reticulated Nassa)
- Tritia obsoleta (Common Nassa)
- Tritia muricata (Spiny Nassa)
- Tritia pullus (Dwarf Nassa)