Montagu's Necklace Shell
NameMontagu's Necklace Shell
Scientific NameLamellaria perspicua
Common NameMontagu's Necklace Shell
FamilyLamellariidae
GenusLamellaria
Speciesperspicua
Geographic DistributionNortheast Atlantic Ocean, including the British Isles, extending from Norway southwards to the Mediterranean Sea.
Average Size (mm)The animal typically reaches up to 20-30 mm in length, with the internal shell being proportionally smaller, around 10-20 mm.
Identifying FeaturesKey features include its internal or semi-internal, fragile shell almost entirely enveloped by a large, often warty or smooth mantle. It possesses two prominent, often pointed, rhinophores (sensory tentacles) on its head. Its specialized diet on colonial ascidians is also a distinguishing characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Montagu, 1815)
Description
Montagu's Necklace Shell is a small, marine gastropod mollusc, an opisthobranch, characterized by its internal or semi-internal, thin, and fragile shell that is largely or entirely covered by the animal's mantle. The image shows the pale, somewhat ovate shell partially visible beneath the translucent mantle of the living animal, which is clinging to marine growth in a dark, underwater environment. This species is known for its cryptic lifestyle and specialized diet.
