Encope

Encope is a genus of sand dollars belonging to the family Mellitidae. These echinoderms are characterized by their flattened, disc-shaped bodies and the presence of lunules (slits or perforations) through the test (shell). These lunules help stabilize the sand dollar in turbulent water and reduce lift caused by currents.

Encope sand dollars are found in sandy or muddy substrates in shallow coastal waters, primarily in the Americas, ranging from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts.

Key characteristics of Encope include:

• Flattened Test: A noticeably flat, disk-like body shape.
• Lunules: The presence of one or more lunules. The number and shape of lunules can vary between species.
• Petaloids: Flower-like patterns of pores (petaloids) on the aboral (upper) surface for gas exchange.
• Spines: Numerous small spines covering the test, aiding in movement and burrowing.
• Food: Primarily detritus and small organic particles collected from the sediment.