Meandrina

Meandrina is a genus of small, marine, carnivorous gastropod mollusks in the family Cymatiidae. The genus was first described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1816. Meandrina species are characterized by their small, conical shells with a smooth surface and a narrow aperture. They are typically found in shallow waters, often in rocky or coral reef habitats.

Meandrina species are known for their unique feeding behavior. They use their radula, a ribbon-like structure lined with sharp teeth, to scrape algae and other organic material from surfaces. This behavior is particularly notable in Meandrina meandrites, which is one of the most common species in the genus. The radula is also used for defense, as the mollusk can retract it into its shell to protect itself from predators.

Meandrina species are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce sexually, with fertilization occurring internally. The eggs are laid in a gelatinous mass, which is then attached to a surface. The larvae are planktonic, drifting in the water column before settling and metamorphosing into juvenile Meandrina.

Meandrina species are of interest to scientists due to their unique feeding behavior and their role in the ecosystem. They are also of interest to collectors due to their attractive shells. However, their populations are threatened by habitat destruction and pollution, and conservation efforts are underway to protect these species.