Mucronidae

Mucronidae is a taxonomic family of marine snails, specifically sea snails. These gastropods belong to the order Littorinimorpha, which encompasses a diverse group of marine snails. The defining characteristic of the Mucronidae family is the presence of a mucro, which is a small, sharp projection or spine on the shell, often located near the apex. This feature gives the family its name.

Members of the Mucronidae family are typically small to medium-sized snails with coiled shells. The shell morphology can vary, but often features prominent sculpture, such as ribs or nodules, in addition to the characteristic mucro. Their habitat is generally marine, with many species found in rocky intertidal zones, coral reefs, or on sandy or muddy substrates. They are often detritivores or grazers, feeding on algae or organic matter.

The classification and precise number of species within Mucronidae have been subject to ongoing research and revision by malacologists. Like many marine gastropod families, its members are found in various oceans worldwide, with particular diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. Further research into their genetics and morphology continues to refine our understanding of this family's evolutionary relationships and ecological roles.