Vermetidae
Vermetidae, commonly known as worm snails, are a family of small to medium-sized marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the superfamily Vermetoidea. These snails are unique due to their unusual, often tube-shaped shells and their sedentary lifestyle. Vermetidae are found in a variety of marine environments around the world, from tropical to temperate waters.
Characteristics
Vermetidae are characterized by their peculiar, often irregular shells that are typically attached to hard substrates such as rocks, corals, and seaweeds. The shells are usually long and tubular, with the opening facing upward. Unlike most gastropods, Vermetidae are sedentary and rarely move once they have attached themselves to a surface. They feed by extending their siphon into the water column to filter food particles. Vermetidae exhibit a wide range of colors, including white, gray, brown, and yellow, often blending in with their surroundings.
Environments
Vermetidae are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Subtidal zones
- Coral reefs
- Rocky shores
- Seagrass beds