Kelp Snail (Norrisia norrisii)

Contributed by TPERP Dan Wieder

 

Where to find them: Primarily from Monterey to Baja California in the low intertidal and shallow subtidal zones.

What do they eat: Kelp and algae

Who eats them: Otters, sea stars, spiny lobsters and octopus.

Adaptations: The shell is smooth, normally brown having a turban shape. The fleshy foot is a bright reddish orange  with black specks.

Reproduction: Little is known about the reproduction of these snails. 

What’s their life like: They are found in the lower intertidal zone grazing on kelp an algae.

Interesting facts: When fleeing a predator, it can detach itself and roll or fall away. Empty shells are often occupied by hermit crabs.

  

Classification

Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Gastropoda
Order: Trochoidea
Family: Tegulidae
Scientific Name: Norrisia norrisii
Common Name(s): Norris’ Top Snail, Kelp Snail,

Source(s) of Information:
http://www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org/exhibits/socal-species-details.asp?id=17

 

Last revised 13-Jan-18