Crepedula

Crepedula is a genus of sea snails, specifically slipper snails or boat shells, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Calyptraeidae.

Description:

Crepedula snails are characterized by their flattened, boat-shaped or slipper-shaped shells. Inside the shell, there is a shelf or deck that covers part of the aperture. This shelf is used by the snail to cling to surfaces. Their shells are typically off-white, grayish, or brownish in color. They vary in size depending on the species, but are generally small to medium-sized.

Distribution and Habitat:

Crepedula species are found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters. They are often found attached to rocks, shells, or other hard surfaces in the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. Some species are also found attached to larger marine animals like crabs or horseshoe crabs.

Ecology and Behavior:

Crepedula snails are filter feeders, using their gills to extract food particles from the water. They are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they start their lives as males and later transition into females. They often live in stacks, with the older, larger females at the bottom and the younger, smaller males on top. Reproduction involves the female snail brooding the eggs under her shell.

Taxonomy:

The genus Crepedula includes a number of species, varying depending on the source. Some common species include:

• Crepedula fornicata (Common Atlantic Slipper Snail)
• Crepedula plana (Eastern White Slipper Snail)
• Crepedula convexa (Convex Slipper Snail)

Human Interactions:

Crepedula fornicata, in particular, has been introduced to various parts of the world outside its native range and can become an invasive species. Its dense populations can compete with native species for resources and foul aquaculture facilities. While not typically consumed by humans directly, they can impact shellfish aquaculture.