Montfortia emarginata
NameMontfortia emarginata
Scientific NameMontfortia emarginata
Common NameNone widely recognized for this species; generally referred to as a keyhole limpet.
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusMontfortia
Speciesemarginata
Geographic DistributionPrimarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Australia and New Zealand. Fossil records suggest a broader historical distribution, such as the Miocene of Europe.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)11
Identifying FeaturesSmall, conical shell with a prominent anterior emargination (slit). The shell surface is adorned with strong, often nodulose or scaly, radial ribs that extend from the apex to the shell margin. The apex is slightly anterior.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Blainville, 1825)
Description
A small, conical to patelliform (limpet-like) marine gastropod shell, characterized by its prominent radial sculpture and a distinct anterior emargination or slit. The shell exhibits an off-white to light grey coloration, likely due to preservation or bleaching.
