Tugali cicatricosa
NameTugali cicatricosa
Scientific NameTugali cicatricosa
Common NameScarred Tugali
FamilyFissurellidae
GenusTugali
Speciescicatricosa
Geographic DistributionEndemic to New Zealand, found around the North and South Islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Up to 20-30 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its oval, depressed limpet-like shell, the presence of an anterior notch (not a central hole), and a sculpture of radial ribs and concentric growth lines that can give it a 'scarred' or irregular texture. The overall low profile and often translucent appearance are also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationA. Adams, 1852
Description
Tugali cicatricosa is a species of keyhole limpet, characterized by its oval, depressed, and limpet-like shell. The shell is typically whitish to pale yellowish-brown, often with a somewhat translucent appearance, and can be covered with encrusting organisms or detritus, as seen in the image. It exhibits both radial ribs and concentric growth lines, giving it a textured, sometimes 'scarred' appearance, which is reflected in its species name. Unlike some other keyhole limpets, it possesses an anterior notch rather than a central apical hole.
