scissurellids

Scissurellids are a family of small, predatory sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks. They are characterized by their distinctive shell, which is typically thin, fragile, and often perforated with a characteristic "scissure" or notch. This notch is a unique feature that helps to distinguish scissurellids from other gastropod families. The shell is usually white or translucent, and it may be iridescent in some species. Scissurellids are found in various marine environments, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. They are known for their predatory behavior, feeding on small invertebrates and even other snails. The family includes several genera, with Scissurella being one of the most well-known. Scissurellids play an important role in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey. They are also of interest to scientists studying marine biology and evolution. However, due to their fragile shells, scissurellids are vulnerable to predation and environmental changes. The family Scissurellidae was first described by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1801, and it has since been revised and classified by various taxonomists. The family is currently placed in the superfamily Seguenzioidea, which includes other small predatory snails.