Crucibulum (gastropod)
Crucibulum is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Calyptraeidae, the slipper snails or cup-and-saucer snails.
Description
Species in the genus Crucibulum are characterized by their cup-like or saucer-like shell, often with a distinctive internal deck or septum which gives them their common names. This deck partially covers the aperture and provides a surface for the animal to attach to. The shell is typically conical or oval in shape and varies in coloration depending on the species and environment.
Distribution
Crucibulum snails are found in various temperate and tropical marine environments worldwide. Their distribution ranges across different oceans, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are often found attached to rocks, shells, or other hard substrates in intertidal and subtidal zones.
Ecology
Crucibulum are filter feeders, using cilia to capture small particles and plankton from the water. They are often found in aggregations, sometimes stacked on top of each other. Sex change is common within this genus, with individuals often starting as males and later transitioning to females.
Species
The genus Crucibulum contains numerous species, some of which include:
- Crucibulum auricula
- Crucibulum cyclopium
- Crucibulum extinctorium
- Crucibulum imbricatum
- Crucibulum monticulus
- Crucibulum personatum
- Crucibulum planum
- Crucibulum scutellatum
- Crucibulum spinosum
- Crucibulum umbrella
This list is not exhaustive, and the taxonomic classification of some species may be subject to change.
Taxonomy
The genus Crucibulum was established by Schumacher in 1817. Its placement within the Calyptraeidae family reflects its morphological and ecological similarities to other slipper snails. Ongoing research using molecular and morphological data continues to refine the taxonomic relationships within the genus and the broader family.