Mangelia

Mangelia is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Mangeliidae. These are small to medium-sized predatory or scavenging snails, characterized by their fusiform (spindle-shaped) shells, often with distinct spiral sculpture and an anal sinus.

Description

Shell: The shell of Mangelia species is typically fusiform or ovate-fusiform, meaning it is elongated and tapers at both ends. The shell surface is usually ornamented with spiral ridges or cords, and sometimes axial ribs, creating a distinctive pattern. The aperture is elongated and the outer lip is often thickened. A key feature is the presence of an anal sinus or notch located near the suture on the outer lip. The size of Mangelia shells varies, but they are generally small, ranging from a few millimeters to around 20 millimeters in length.

Soft Parts: Little is generally known about the soft parts of many Mangelia species, as they are often small and inconspicuous. Like other gastropods, they possess a head with tentacles and eyes, a foot for locomotion, and a mantle cavity that houses the gills.

Distribution

Mangelia species are found globally in various marine environments, with a higher concentration in temperate and tropical waters. They inhabit a range of substrates, including sandy seabeds, rocky shores, and amongst seaweed. They are present in the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Mediterranean Sea, among others.

Ecology

Mangelia snails are carnivorous or scavengers. They prey on small invertebrates or feed on decaying organic matter. Their radula (a rasping tongue-like structure) is used to scrape food from surfaces or to bore into the shells of their prey.

Taxonomy

The genus Mangelia has been subject to taxonomic revisions over time. Many species originally classified under Mangelia have been moved to other genera within the Mangeliidae family, reflecting ongoing research and phylogenetic analysis. The genus includes a number of species, with new species still being described. Determining the exact number of valid species within Mangelia is an ongoing process.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Mangelia species varies depending on the specific species and the threats they face in their respective habitats. Some species may be locally abundant, while others may be rare or threatened due to habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change. More research is needed to fully assess the conservation status of many Mangelia species.