fosilini

Fosilini is a genus of small, marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the family Rissoidae. These tiny sea snails are characterized by their elongated, turret-shaped shells, which are typically smooth or exhibit fine spiral ornamentation. The aperture, the opening of the shell, is often ovate and sometimes possesses a distinct varix, a thickened rib. The shell color can vary but is generally light-colored, ranging from white to pale brown or gray.

Fosilini are found in marine environments, inhabiting shallow waters and often associated with rocky substrates, algae, or seagrass beds. Their distribution is primarily in temperate and subtropical regions, with some species recorded in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. As with other members of the Rissoidae family, Fosilini are presumed to be detritivores or grazers, feeding on algae or organic matter found on the seafloor. Their small size and cryptic nature make them relatively inconspicuous in their natural habitats. The fossil record for this genus is limited, with most known specimens representing extant species. Ongoing research in marine invertebrate taxonomy and paleontology continues to refine our understanding of Fosilini and its evolutionary relationships.