Fissurella peruviana
NameFissurella peruviana
Scientific NameFissurella peruviana
Common NamePeruvian keyhole limpet
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusFissurella
Speciesperuviana
Geographic DistributionPacific coast of South America, primarily Peru and Chile.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Up to 60 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinguishing features are its conical shape, the apical keyhole-shaped opening (foramen), and the prominent reddish-purple and white radial color pattern. Strong radial ribbing is also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLamarck, 1822
Description
A conical, limpet-like shell with a distinctive apical keyhole-shaped foramen. The shell exhibits strong radial ribs and a striking color pattern of reddish-purple to magenta radial bands alternating with lighter, cream-colored stripes. The specimen in the image is partially embedded in coarse sand, suggesting it may have been found in an intertidal or shallow subtidal environment.
