bataw

Bataw refers to a type of marine gastropod mollusk, commonly known as the "slit limpet" or "keyhole limpet" in English. These marine snails belong to the family Fissurellidae. They are characterized by a hole or slit in the apex of their conical shell, which serves as an outlet for water to exit after passing through the mantle cavity. This unique shell morphology distinguishes them from true limpets, which have a closed, conical shell.

Fissurellidae species are found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting a range of substrates including rocks, shells, and algae, typically in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. Their diet consists mainly of algae, which they graze using a radula. The size and shape of bataw shells vary considerably depending on the specific species, but they are generally robust and adapted to withstand wave action.

In some cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia, bataw are harvested and consumed as seafood. Their flesh is considered a delicacy and is prepared in various culinary ways. The shells are also sometimes collected for their aesthetic appeal or for use in crafts. Like other mollusks, bataw play a role in their marine ecosystems as grazers, helping to control algal growth.