Scutus sinensis
NameScutus sinensis
Scientific NameScutus sinensis
Common NameChinese Shield Shell
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusScutus
Speciessinensis
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including coastal waters of China, Japan, Australia, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)The animal can reach up to 100-150 mm in length, with the internal shell being considerably smaller.
Identifying FeaturesDistinguished by its large, broad, and fleshy mantle that almost entirely covers the internal, shield-shaped shell. The mantle often has a frilly or undulating margin. It possesses two prominent cephalic tentacles. The absence of an external, conical shell and the presence of a broad mantle are key identifiers.
Raritycommon
Author CitationBlainville, 1825
Description
Scutus sinensis, commonly known as the Chinese Shield Shell or Shield Limpet, is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Fissurellidae. Unlike typical limpets, its shell is largely internal or covered by a broad, fleshy mantle, giving it a slug-like appearance. The animal is characterized by its dark, often mottled coloration and a wide, undulating mantle that extends well beyond the shell margins.
