Pellene

Pellene is a genus of marine gastropod molluscs in the family Buccinidae. These snails are commonly known as whelks. The genus Pellene is characterized by its elongated, fusiform shell, which often has a thick, calcified operculum. The shell's surface is typically ornamented with axial ribs and spiral cords, giving it a rough texture. The aperture of the shell is usually ovate and possesses a distinct siphonal canal.

Species within the Pellene genus are found in various marine environments, predominantly in the Indo-Pacific region. They are benthic, meaning they live on the seafloor, and are often found in shallow to moderate depths, inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates. Their diet consists mainly of other invertebrates, including bivalves and polychaete worms, which they prey upon using their radula.

Reproduction in Pellene species typically involves the laying of egg masses, which are deposited on the seabed or attached to submerged objects. The larval development can be planktonic or direct, depending on the specific species. Like other gastropods, Pellene possesses a muscular foot for locomotion and a distinct head region with sensory tentacles and eyes. The exact taxonomic placement and relationships of Pellene within the Buccinidae family are subject to ongoing research and may vary among different classification systems.