The Nautilus Log
Fissurella microtrema

Fissurella microtrema

NameFissurella microtrema
Scientific NameFissurella microtrema
Common NameKeyhole limpet
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusFissurella
Speciesmicrotrema
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and other tropical Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)15-25
Identifying FeaturesLow conical shape, prominent apical foramen (keyhole), strong radial ribs, and distinctive radial banding pattern in shades of brown and white.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby, 1862

Description

A small, limpet-like marine gastropod shell, characterized by its low conical shape and a distinctive keyhole-shaped apical opening. The shell surface features prominent radial ribs and is adorned with alternating light and dark brown bands, often with black speckling. It is typically found clinging to rocky substrates in intertidal and subtidal zones.

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