Ulmaridae
Ulmaridae is a family of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Trochoidea. They are commonly known as top shells, a name shared with several other families of gastropods. The family Ulmaridae has been established as a distinct family since 2006, with the genus Ulmar originally assigned to the family Trochidae. This family consists of only one genus, Ulmar, and contains approximately 100 species, though only 32 of them are currently accepted.
Characteristics
Ulmaridae are small to medium-sized snails that are typically conical in shape. They have a distinctive operculum, which is a hard, calcareous plate that covers the opening of the shell when the animal is retracted. The operculum in Ulmaridae is generally corneous, but there are instances where it can be calcareous. The shells of Ulmaridae are often brightly colored and patterned, with a smooth or slightly sculptured surface. Ulmaridae have a distinct radula, a ribbon-like structure in the mouth that is used for scraping food. The radula of Ulmaridae is typically multi-cuspid, with multiple rows of teeth.
Environment
Ulmaridae are found in a variety of marine environments, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. They are typically found in shallow water, but some species can be found in deeper water.
Distribution
Ulmaridae have a worldwide distribution, with species found in all the major oceans.
References
- Bouchet, P.; Rocroi, J.-P.; Frýda, J.; Hausdorf, B.; Ponder, W.; Valdés, Á.; Waren, A. (2005). "Classification and nomenclator of gastropod families". Malacologia. 47(1-2): 1–397. ISBN 978-3-89228-383-0.
- Gofas, S.; Le Renard, J.; Bouchet, P. (2001). "Mollusca, in: Costello, M.J. et al. (Ed.) (2001). European register of marine species: a check-list of the marine species in Europe and a bibliography of guides to their identification". Collection Patrimoines Naturels. 50: 180–213.
- Ponder, W. F. (2006). "Trochidae". Malacologia. 48 (1-2): 25–140.