Scutus rueppelli
NameScutus rueppelli
Scientific NameScutus rueppelli
Common NameRüppell's Shield Shell
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusScutus
Speciesrueppelli
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)70
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive feature is the large, fleshy, dark-colored mantle that completely covers the internal shell, making it appear slug-like. The mantle often has a ruffled or undulating edge and a characteristic anterior notch or slit. It moves slowly over rocky surfaces.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Philippi, 1844)
Description
The image displays a living specimen of Scutus rueppelli, a marine gastropod mollusk. It is characterized by a large, fleshy, dark-colored mantle that completely envelops its internal, shield-like shell, giving it a slug-like or limpet-like appearance. The mantle is dark brown to black, with a somewhat ruffled or undulating edge, and appears to have a central ridge or fold. The animal is shown adhering to a light-colored, mottled rocky substrate, indicative of its natural marine habitat.
