Vanikoridae

Vanikoridae is a family of small marine gastropod mollusks, commonly known as false limpets or false ear shells. These snails are characterized by their relatively thin, limpet-like shells, which are often coiled. They belong to the order Littorinimorpha.

The shells of Vanikoridae species are typically conical or ovate and may have a somewhat flattened or rounded apex. Sculpture on the shell can vary, but often includes spiral cords and axial growth lines. The aperture is usually rounded or oval. The periostracum, a thin organic layer covering the shell, is often present and can be hairy or scaly in some species.

These snails are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. They are typically epifaunal, living on hard substrates such as rocks, coral, and shells. Many species are associated with specific hosts, particularly cnidarians like corals and sea anemones, where they graze on the polyps or associated algae.

Reproduction in Vanikoridae is varied, with some species exhibiting direct development and others having planktonic larval stages. The diet generally consists of algae or small invertebrates. Due to their small size and often cryptic habitats, Vanikoridae are not as widely observed or collected as some other marine gastropods.