Patella aspera
NamePatella aspera
Scientific NamePatella aspera
Common NameRough Limpet
FamilyPatellidae
GenusPatella
Speciesaspera
Geographic DistributionNortheast Atlantic Ocean, including the British Isles, France, Spain, Portugal, and Macaronesia (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands).
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 30 to 70 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesStrong, irregular, and often nodulose radial ribs; rough surface texture; conical shape; often a somewhat scalloped or crenulated shell margin; apex usually slightly anterior.
Raritycommon
Author CitationRöding, 1798
Description
Patella aspera, commonly known as the Rough Limpet, is a species of true limpet found in the Northeast Atlantic. Its shell is characterized by a conical to cap-like shape with prominent, irregular, and often nodulose radial ribs, giving it a distinctly rough texture. The exterior coloration typically features mottled patterns of brown, reddish-brown, and cream, with the ribs often appearing lighter. This herbivorous mollusc inhabits rocky intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, where it grazes on microalgae.
