Xenophora
Xenophora is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Xenophoridae. They are commonly known as carrier shells or saddle shells due to their unique habit of carrying and attaching foreign objects to their shells.
Characteristics
Xenophora species have a distinctive and highly variable shell morphology. They are characterized by their wide, flattened shells, typically adorned with an array of attached objects such as pebbles, shells, and other marine debris. These objects are carefully selected and attached to the shell using a sticky mucus secreted by the snail.
The shell's aperture, or opening, is located on the ventral side, and it is often partially obscured by the attached objects. The foot is large and muscular, and it allows the snail to crawl slowly over the seabed.
Environments
Xenophora snails are found in a variety of marine environments, typically in shallow to moderately deep waters. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, where they can find suitable objects to attach to their shells. They are common in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
Diet and Behavior
Xenophora snails are opportunistic feeders, scavenging on dead and decaying organic matter, such as algae, worms, and other small invertebrates. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape food particles off the substrate. They are generally nocturnal and spend the day buried in the sediment, emerging at night to feed.
Defense Mechanisms
The attached objects on the shell of a Xenophora snail serve a dual purpose. They provide camouflage, helping the snail blend into its surroundings and avoid detection by predators. Additionally, the objects can act as a physical barrier, making it more difficult for predators to attack.
Reproduction
Xenophora snails are dioecious, meaning they have separate sexes. After mating, the female snail lays egg capsules that contain hundreds of tiny embryos. The capsules are typically attached to rocks or other hard surfaces.
Notable Species
There are numerous species of Xenophora, including:
- Xenophora conchyliophora
- Xenophora pallidula
- Xenophora corrugata