Turritella
Turritella is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Turritellidae. They are common in many parts of the world, especially in shallow water. These snails are characterized by their elongated, spiral shells that resemble small towers. They are often referred to as “tower snails” or “screw shells” due to their distinctive shape.
Common Names
Common names for Turritella snails include:
- Tower snails
- Screw shells
- Spiral shells
Characteristics
Turritella snails possess several characteristic features:
- Shell Shape: Elongated, conical, and spirally coiled, resembling a tower. The shell is typically pointed at the apex and gradually widens towards the aperture (opening).
- Sculpture: The shell surface can be smooth or ornamented with various patterns, including ribs, spiral cords, or axial lines.
- Coloration: Turritella shells come in a variety of colors, including white, brown, gray, and yellowish. Coloration can vary depending on the species and habitat.
- Size: These snails range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters long. The largest species can reach up to 10 centimeters in length.
Environments
Turritella snails are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Shallow water: They are common in intertidal zones, estuaries, and coastal waters. Some species can tolerate brackish water conditions.
- Subtidal areas: Turritella can also be found in deeper water, down to several hundred meters. These species typically inhabit sandy or muddy bottoms.
Diet
Turritella snails are herbivorous and feed mainly on diatoms, algae, and other microscopic organisms. They use their radula, a rasping tongue-like structure, to scrape food off surfaces.
References
For more information on Turritella snails, you can refer to the following resources: