Conasprella coromandelica

Conasprella coromandelica
Apertural view of shell of Conasprella coromandelica (E.A. Smith, 1894), measuring 35.4 mm in height, dredged at 250 ft. off Madras, in India.
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Mollusca
Class:	Gastropoda
Subclass:	Caenogastropoda
Order:	Neogastropoda
Superfamily:	Conoidea
Family:	Conidae
Genus:	Conasprella
Species:	C. coromandelica
Binomial name
Conasprella coromandelica (E. A. Smith, 1894)
Synonyms
Conasprella (Pseudoconorbis) coromandelica (E. A. Smith, 1894) · accepted, alternate representation Conorbis coromandelicus (E. A. Smith, 1894) Conus coromandelicus E. A. Smith, 1894 (original combination) Pseudoconorbis coromandelicus (E. A. Smith, 1894)

Conasprella coromandelicus is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae, the cone snails and their allies. This species was first described by E. A. Smith in 1894. It is known for its distinct shell morphology and its occurrence in specific marine environments.

This species was originally described as Conus coromandelicus E. A. Smith, 1894.

Description

The shell of Conasprella coromandelica is relatively small, with adult shells varying in size between 29 mm and 45 mm. The shell is characterized by its conical shape and intricate patterns. The coloration of the shell can vary, but it typically features a combination of light and dark hues that provide camouflage against the seabed. The surface of the shell is adorned with fine spiral ridges and grooves, which add to its intricate appearance. The aperture is narrow, and the outer lip is thin and slightly flared.

The shell's structure is adapted to its marine habitat, providing protection against predators and harsh environmental conditions. The species exhibits a high degree of morphological variation, which is common among marine gastropods and is influenced by environmental factors such as water temperature, salinity, and substrate type.

Distribution

Conasprella coromandelicus is a demersal sea snail, found in the Indian Ocean: East Africa, Bay of Bengal, Sri Lanka and Gulf of Oman. It is found in waters ranging from 70–400 meters in depth. This species inhabits demersal zones, typically at depths ranging from 70 to 400 meters. The cold, nutrient-rich waters of these regions provide an ideal habitat for Conasprella coromandelica, supporting its growth and reproduction.

The distribution of Conasprella coromandelica is influenced by various oceanographic factors, including currents, temperature gradients, and the availability of suitable substrates. The species is often found in association with other marine organisms, forming part of a diverse and complex ecosystem.

Habitat and ecology

Conasprella coromandelica is adapted to life in marine environments. It is a benthic species, meaning it lives on or near the seabed. The species is typically found on soft substrates such as mud and sand, where it can burrow and find food. Conasprella coromandeli is a carnivorous species, feeding on small fish, marine worms, and other small invertebrates. It uses a specialized radula, a toothed, chitinous ribbon, to inject venom into its prey, immobilizing it before consumption.

The species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance of predator-prey relationships. Its presence indicates a healthy and functioning marine ecosystem, as it is sensitive to changes in environmental conditions.

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Gastropoda
• Subclass: Caenogastropoda
• Order: Neogastropoda
• Superfamily: Conoidea
• Family: Conidae
• Genus: Conasprella
• Species: C. coromandelica

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Conasprella coromandelica has not been extensively studied. However, like many marine species, it may be vulnerable to environmental changes such as ocean acidification, pollution, and habitat destruction. The marine habitats of the Indian Ocean are subject to various anthropogenic pressures, including overfishing, trawling, and climate change. These activities can have significant impacts on the delicate ecosystems that support species like Conasprella coromandelica.[1]

Research and studies

Research on Conasprella coromandelica has primarily focused on its taxonomy, distribution, and ecological role. Studies have utilized various methods, including morphological analysis, molecular techniques, and ecological surveys, to better understand the species and its habitat. The species is of interest to malacologists and marine biologists due to its unique adaptations and its role in marine ecosystems.

References

• Melvill, J. Cosmo. "Conus coromandelicus, Smith, Its Probable Affinities, and Systematic Position in the Family Conidae." Journal of Molluscan Studies 6.3 (1904): 170–173.
• Filmer R.M. (2001). A Catalogue of Nomenclature and Taxonomy in the Living Conidae 1758 - 1998. Backhuys Publishers, Leiden. 388pp.
• Tucker J.K. (2009). Recent cone species database. 4 September 2009 Edition
• Tucker J.K. & Stahlschmidt P. (2010) A second species of Pseudoconorbis (Gastropoda: Conoidea) from India. Miscellanea Malacologica 4(3): 31–34
• Puillandre N., Duda T.F., Meyer C., Olivera B.M. & Bouchet P. (2015). One, four or 100 genera? A new classification of the cone snails. Journal of Molluscan Studies. 81: 1–23

External links

• Proceedings of the Malacological Society of London vol. 6 (1904–1905), p. 170–172
• "Pseudoconorbis coromandelicus". Gastropods.com. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
• Cone Shells – Knights of the Sea