Cerithioideans

Cerithioideans are a hyperdiverse superfamily of marine, brackish, and freshwater gastropod mollusks. They are characterized by their often elongate, turreted shells, though shell shape can vary considerably within the group. The superfamily encompasses a vast number of species found in a wide range of environments, from tropical coral reefs to temperate intertidal zones and even freshwater rivers and lakes. They are a successful and ancient lineage, with a fossil record extending back to the Mesozoic era.

This superfamily is divided into several families, including the Cerithiidae, which are predominantly marine and often found in sandy or muddy substrates. Other families, such as the Potamididae and Thiaridae, are more commonly found in brackish or freshwater habitats, particularly in estuaries and tropical rivers. Cerithioideans are generally detritivores or herbivores, feeding on algae, diatoms, and organic matter. Their feeding strategies contribute significantly to nutrient cycling in their respective ecosystems.

Reproduction in cerithioideans varies, with some species having direct development and others releasing planktonic larvae. The ecological importance of cerithioideans is considerable; they form a crucial part of the food web, serving as prey for various fish, crustaceans, and birds. Their burrowing activities can also influence sediment structure and water flow in benthic environments. Due to their sensitivity to environmental changes, some cerithioidean species are used as bioindicators of water quality.