Cyphoma

Cyphoma is a genus of small to medium-sized sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Ovulidae, the ovulids, cowry allies or false cowries. These snails are characterized by their colorful mantles, which they extend to cover their shells when alive.

Description:

Species within the Cyphoma genus typically have elongated, somewhat cylindrical shells. The shell surface is often smooth and glossy, though it can be obscured by the living animal's mantle. The mantle is usually brightly colored with intricate patterns that provide camouflage and possibly deter predators. The mantle retracts when the snail is disturbed, revealing the underlying shell.

Distribution:

Cyphoma snails are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

Ecology:

Cyphoma snails are typically found on gorgonians (sea fans and sea whips). They feed on the polyps of these corals, using their radula to scrape off the tissue. Their feeding activity can leave noticeable scars on the gorgonians.

Species:

Several species are recognized within the Cyphoma genus, including:

• Cyphoma gibbosum (Linnaeus, 1758) - the flamingo tongue snail
• Cyphoma macumba Petuch, 1979
• Cyphoma rhomba Cate, 1978
• Cyphoma signatum Pilsbry & Sharp, 1885

Conservation:

Some Cyphoma species, particularly the flamingo tongue snail (Cyphoma gibbosum), are vulnerable to over-collection by divers and snorkelers due to their attractive appearance. They are also susceptible to habitat degradation and coral reef decline. Conservation efforts are focused on raising awareness about the importance of these snails and protecting their gorgonian host habitats.