Tasmanian Keyhole Limpet
NameTasmanian Keyhole Limpet
Scientific NameMacroschisma tasmaniae
Common NameTasmanian Keyhole Limpet
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusMacroschisma
Speciestasmaniae
Geographic DistributionEndemic to southern Australia, including Tasmania, Victoria, and South Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 20 to 40 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include the cap-shaped shell with its prominent, elongated keyhole-like apical foramen, and the extensive, often papillose, mantle that largely obscures the shell in living specimens. Its distribution in southern Australia is also a key identifier.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby, 1862
Description
Macroschisma tasmaniae is a species of keyhole limpet, a marine gastropod mollusc belonging to the family Fissurellidae. This image shows a living specimen attached to a rocky substrate, likely in an intertidal or shallow subtidal zone. The animal's pale, papillose mantle is visible, extending significantly beyond the shell margin and partially covering the shell itself. The shell is cap-shaped with a characteristic elongated, keyhole-like apical opening.
