Patella rustica
NamePatella rustica
Scientific NamePatella rustica
Common NameRusty limpet
FamilyPatellidae
GenusPatella
Speciesrustica
Geographic DistributionMediterranean Sea and adjacent Atlantic coasts, including Portugal and Spain.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Typically up to 40-50 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesConical shell with an oval base, distinct radial ribbing, and a characteristic spotted or mottled pattern on the exterior. The presence of epibionts is common. The apex is usually slightly off-center.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A medium-sized limpet shell, conical in shape with an oval to subcircular base. The exterior surface is characterized by distinct radial ribs and a mottled pattern of dark spots on a lighter background. The shell in the image appears to have some epibionts (small white organisms) attached to its surface, indicating its natural habitat.
