Zestoas

Zestoas are a group of small, often colorful, marine snails that belong to the family Zestidae within the superfamily Trochoidea. They are found in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with a particular concentration in the Indo-Pacific region. Zestoas are characterized by their distinctive, often intricate shell patterns, which can include stripes, spots, and other designs. These patterns are believed to serve as camouflage or aposematism, warning predators of their potentially toxic nature.

The genus Zestoa is the largest within the family Zestidae, with over 100 species described. The shells of Zestoa species are typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to about 20 millimeters in length. They are usually conical or oval in shape, with a smooth or slightly sculpted surface. The aperture, or opening, is typically oval and can be slightly offset from the center of the shell.

Zestoas are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce sexually, with fertilization occurring internally. The larvae of Zestoa species are planktonic, drifting in the open ocean before settling and metamorphosing into adult snails.

Zestoas play a role in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. As predators, they feed on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. As prey, they are consumed by various marine animals, including fish and other mollusks. Some species of Zestoa are also known to be toxic, containing compounds that can be harmful to predators.