Knobbed Keyhole Limpet
NameKnobbed Keyhole Limpet
Scientific NameFissurella nodosa
Common NameKnobbed Keyhole Limpet
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusFissurella
Speciesnodosa
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Florida, Bermuda, and Brazil.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-40
Identifying FeaturesStrong, prominent radial ribs that are distinctly nodulose or 'knobbed'. A keyhole-shaped apical opening. Conical shell shape.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Born, 1778)
Description
A conical, cap-shaped seashell with a prominent apical opening, characteristic of keyhole limpets. The shell surface is heavily sculptured with strong, nodulose radial ribs, giving it a 'knobbed' appearance. The color is generally light, ranging from creamy white to light brownish-grey.
