Turris

Turris is a genus of marine gastropods, a group of mollusks that possess a coiled shell. These animals are classified within the family Turridae, a large and diverse family of predatory sea snails. The genus Turris is characterized by its elongated, spindle-shaped shells with prominent, often pointed, spires. These shells are typically ornamented with axial ribs and spiral cords, giving them a textured appearance. Members of this genus are found in a variety of marine environments, often inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms.

Common Names

Members of the genus Turris are commonly known as "turrids" or "turrid snails." Some species within the genus may have specific common names, depending on their geographical location and local usage.

Characteristics

The shells of Turris species display the following characteristics:

  • Shape: Elongated, spindle-shaped with a prominent spire
  • Spire: Often pointed and composed of numerous whorls
  • Sculpture: Axial ribs (vertical ridges) and spiral cords (horizontal ridges) are common features.
  • Aperture: The opening of the shell is oval-shaped, typically with a siphonal canal at the base.
  • Color: Shell colors vary depending on the species, but shades of brown, white, and gray are common.

Environment

Turris snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Subtidal zones: These snails live in areas below the low tide mark.
  • Continental shelves: They inhabit the relatively shallow areas of the ocean floor extending from the coastline.
  • Sandy or muddy bottoms: Turris snails are often found in substrates with a high proportion of sand or mud.

References

World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS): Turris
Seashells.net: Turridae
Gastropods.com: Turridae