Neotaenoglossa

Neotaenoglossa is a monophyletic group of gastropods, a diverse class of mollusks. Historically, this group was placed within the larger order Mesogastropoda, but modern phylogenetic studies have led to its reclassification. Neotaenoglossa is characterized by a taenioglossate radula, which is a type of ribbon-like structure with teeth used for feeding. The teeth are typically arranged in three rows per transverse row. This group encompasses a wide range of families and genera, including many common marine snails found in various habitats, from shallow coastal waters to deeper ocean environments. Members of Neotaenoglossa exhibit a variety of lifestyles, with some being herbivorous, others carnivorous, and some detritivores. Their shell morphology is also highly diverse, reflecting their varied ecological niches. This group is an important component of marine ecosystems, playing roles in nutrient cycling and serving as prey for other animals. The taxonomy of Neotaenoglossa continues to be refined as new research emerges, particularly from molecular data.