Helmet Puncturella
NameHelmet Puncturella
Scientific NamePuncturella galeata
Common NameHelmet Puncturella
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusPuncturella
Speciesgaleata
Geographic DistributionNorth Pacific Ocean, including the west coast of North America from Alaska to California, and also reported from Japan.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)15-25
Identifying FeaturesIts distinctive conical shape with an anteriorly curved apex, the characteristic apical opening (puncture) at the top of the shell, and the fine reticulate sculpture on its surface. The visible white body of the living animal is also a key feature in the image.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gould, 1846)
Description
A small, conical, limpet-like seashell with a prominent apical opening (puncture). The shell is light brown to yellowish-brown, exhibiting fine concentric growth lines and subtle radial sculpture, giving it a somewhat reticulated appearance. The apex is curved anteriorly. The living animal, with its white body and small tentacles, is visible extending from beneath the shell's aperture.
