rutinella

Rutinella is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the family Muricidae, commonly known as murex snails or rock snails. These snails are characterized by their ornate shells, often featuring prominent spines or knobs, which serve as a defense against predators.

Species within the Rutinella genus are found in various marine environments, particularly in tropical and subtropical waters. They are typically benthic organisms, meaning they live on the seafloor, and can be found on rocky substrates, coral reefs, and sandy areas. The diet of Rutinella species generally consists of other invertebrates, such as bivalves and worms.

The shells of Rutinella are highly varied and are often collected by shell enthusiasts. Some species have been studied for their biological properties, though extensive research on the genus as a whole is limited. Like other members of the Muricidae family, Rutinella snails are carnivorous predators. The classification and specific number of species within Rutinella are subject to ongoing taxonomic research and may change as new information becomes available.