Fissurella

Fissurella is a genus of small to medium-sized sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Fissurellidae. The genus was first described by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1804. Fissurella species are characterized by their elongated, conical shells with a smooth, glossy surface. The shells are typically white or cream-colored, with a spiral pattern of darker bands. The aperture is narrow and elongated, with a smooth inner surface.

Fissurella species are found in shallow to moderately deep waters, typically in rocky or sandy substrates. They are often associated with algae and other sessile organisms. Fissurella are herbivorous, feeding on algae and other plant material. They are also known to feed on detritus and other organic matter.

Fissurella species are of interest to both scientists and collectors due to their unique shell morphology and the patterns they exhibit. The genus is widely distributed, with species found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Some species are also found in the Mediterranean Sea.

The genus Fissurella is divided into several species, including Fissurella digitalis, Fissurella margaritacea, and Fissurella senegalensis. Each species has its own unique shell characteristics and distribution. Fissurella are an important part of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter and the cycling of nutrients.