Mathildidae

Mathildidae is a family of small to medium-sized sea snails, commonly known as the mathildid snails. These gastropods are marine and belong to the superfamily Murchisonelloidea. They are characterized by their relatively high-spired shells, which are often coiled in a helicoid or trochoid manner. The aperture of the shell is typically simple, with a thin outer lip.

These snails are found in all the world's oceans, inhabiting a range of environments from shallow tropical waters to the deep sea. Their diet is thought to consist mainly of algae or detritus, and they are often found on rocky substrates, coral reefs, or in seagrass beds. While many species are sessile or slow-moving, some have been observed to be more active.

The family Mathildidae contains numerous genera and species, though many have been described only from fossil evidence. Living species are diverse, and their exact taxonomic placement and evolutionary relationships are areas of ongoing research. Reproduction in Mathildidae is believed to be sexual, with external fertilization and the release of planktonic larvae. Some species may exhibit direct development. The precise ecological roles and economic importance of mathildid snails are not extensively documented, but they likely contribute to the marine food web as grazers or detritivores.