Fissurella obscura
NameFissurella obscura
Scientific NameFissurella obscura
Common NameObscure Keyhole Limpet
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusFissurella
Speciesobscura
Geographic DistributionSoutheastern Pacific Ocean, primarily along the coasts of Chile and Peru.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-40
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying feature is the distinct oval apical opening (keyhole) at the top of the shell. The low conical shape and radial sculpture (though not clearly visible in this image) are also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby I, 1835
Description
Fissurella obscura is a species of keyhole limpet, a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Fissurellidae. The shell is typically low conical with a distinctive oval-shaped apical opening, often referred to as a 'keyhole'. The specimen in the image appears dark grey to black, embedded in sand, suggesting it might be a washed-up shell. These limpets are known for their grazing habits on algae.
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