turritellid

Turritellid refers to a family of marine gastropod mollusks commonly known as the turret shells. These gastropods are characterized by their long, slender, and spirally coiled shells, which resemble a turret or a miniature tower. The shell aperture is typically small and oval. Turritellids are filter feeders, using their ctenidia (gills) to strain food particles from the water column. They inhabit a wide range of marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea, and are found globally. Their shells are often found as fossils, providing valuable insights into past marine ecosystems. Several genera are recognized within the family, with Turritella being the most well-known. The specific morphology of their shells can vary between species, influenced by factors such as habitat and diet. While generally small, some turritellid species can grow to several centimeters in length. They are an important component of many benthic communities and contribute to the geological record through their calcareous shells.