Patellariidae

Patellariidae is a family of marine snails, commonly known as limpets. These gastropod mollusks are characterized by their conical, cap-shaped shells. They belong to the order Patellogastropoda, which is a group of true limpets. Patellariids are found in rocky intertidal zones and shallow subtidal environments worldwide, particularly in temperate and tropical waters.

The shell of a Patellariidae limpet is typically oval and radially ribbed, with a pointed apex. The interior of the shell is often smooth and pearly. The foot of the limpet is large and muscular, allowing it to adhere tightly to the substrate, which helps it withstand strong wave action. They are herbivores, feeding primarily on algae scraped from rocks using their radula, a ribbon-like structure bearing many rows of teeth.

Reproduction in Patellariidae generally involves external fertilization. Many species exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females typically being larger than males. Limpets play an important role in their ecosystems, grazing on algae and serving as a food source for various predators. The family is diverse, with numerous genera and species described, each adapted to specific ecological niches within the intertidal and shallow marine environment.