Mangeliidae

Mangeliidae is a family of marine gastropod molluscs, commonly known as slender sea snails. These snails are characterized by their elongated, often spiraled shells, which are typically thin and brittle. The aperture of the shell is usually narrow, and the siphonal canal, if present, is short. Mangeliids are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea habitats, and are distributed globally.

Members of the Mangeliidae family are primarily predatory, feeding on small invertebrates such as worms, crustaceans, and other molluscs. They often possess a radula, a ribbon-like structure with teeth, which they use to rasp or pierce their prey. Some species are known to inject venom to subdue their prey. Reproduction in Mangeliidae typically involves sexual reproduction, with external fertilization and the laying of egg masses. The larval stages are planktonic, contributing to their dispersal.

The taxonomic classification of Mangeliidae has undergone revisions, and its precise definition and placement within the broader order Neogastropoda continue to be areas of ongoing research. The family encompasses a diverse array of species, many of which are small and not easily observed, making detailed study challenging. Despite their inconspicuous nature, Mangeliidae plays a role in marine food webs as both predators and prey.