Pelicaria

Pelicaria is a genus of marine gastropod molluscs in the family Struthiolariidae. These snails are characterized by their thick, heavy shells, often with a distinctive pear-like shape. They are found in the shallow waters of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly around New Zealand and Australia.

Pelicaria shells typically exhibit a spiral structure with a prominent spire and a large body whorl. The aperture (opening) is usually oval or elongated and may have a thickened lip. The outer surface of the shell can be smooth or ornamented with ribs, nodules, or other sculptural features. The color is generally drab, ranging from white or cream to shades of brown or gray.

These snails are benthic feeders, meaning they live on and forage along the seabed. They are thought to be deposit feeders or scavengers, consuming organic matter from the sediment.

The genus Pelicaria includes several recognized species, though taxonomic classifications may vary slightly depending on the source. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the evolutionary relationships and distribution patterns of these fascinating marine snails.