Macmalleissa

Macmalleissa is a genus of extinct sea snails belonging to the family Turritellidae. These marine gastropod mollusks are characterized by their long, slender, and turret-shaped shells. The shells typically exhibit numerous whorls that are tightly coiled and often possess prominent axial ribs or other sculptural elements. Macmalleissa lived during the Cretaceous period, with fossils found in various locations around the world, indicating a widespread distribution in ancient seas. The genus is named in honor of paleontologist Malcolm P. Mallea, who contributed significantly to the study of Cretaceous marine invertebrates.

Fossilized specimens of Macmalleissa provide valuable insights into the paleoecology and paleogeography of the Cretaceous. Their presence in certain rock formations helps paleontologists date the strata and understand the environmental conditions of ancient marine ecosystems. The detailed shell morphology allows for taxonomic classification and comparison with other Turritellid species, both living and extinct. Research on Macmalleissa contributes to our broader understanding of marine biodiversity through geological time and the evolutionary history of gastropods.