Cleonae

Cleonae is a genus of marine snails belonging to the family Buccinidae, commonly known as whelks. These gastropods are characterized by their spirally coiled shells, which typically exhibit a fusiform or ovate shape. The aperture, or opening of the shell, is usually elongated and may possess a siphonal canal at its base. The exterior of the shell often displays various patterns of sculpture, such as axial ribs or spiral striae, though the exact ornamentation can vary between species.

The distribution of Cleonae species is primarily found in temperate and tropical marine waters worldwide. They are benthic organisms, meaning they live on the seabed, and can be found in a range of habitats including sandy bottoms, muddy substrates, and rocky areas. Their diet generally consists of bivalves and other invertebrates, which they prey upon using their radula. Like other whelks, Cleonae are typically gonochoristic, with separate male and female individuals. Reproduction usually involves the laying of egg capsules, which are deposited on the substrate. The genus Cleonae has been subject to taxonomic revisions, and the classification of certain species may vary between different authorities.