Maurea
Maurea is a genus of sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Calliostomatidae, the calliostoma snails.
Description
Snails in the genus Maurea typically possess a conical or trochiform shell. The shell sculpture can vary, often including spiral cords or lirae, and sometimes axial ribs. The color patterns are diverse, ranging from drab to brightly colored. Like other members of the Calliostomatidae, Maurea snails are characterized by nacreous (pearly) inner shell layers.
Distribution
Maurea species are predominantly found in the waters surrounding New Zealand and Australia. Their habitat ranges from intertidal zones to deeper subtidal environments.
Ecology
Like other calliostomatids, Maurea snails are typically grazers, feeding on algae and detritus on the seafloor. Specific dietary habits and reproductive behaviors can vary between species within the genus.
Taxonomy
The genus Maurea was established by Oliver in 1926. The taxonomic placement and classification of species within Maurea have been subject to revision over time, with some species being transferred to other genera based on morphological and molecular data.
Species
The list of recognized species within the genus Maurea may vary depending on the taxonomic authority. Commonly cited species include:
- Maurea antipoda (Hombron & Jacquinot, 1848)
- Maurea punctata (Martyn, 1784)
- Maurea tigris (Gmelin, 1791)
- Maurea waikanae Oliver, 1926