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Turbonilla melea
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Mollusca
Class:	Gastropoda
Family:	Pyramidellidae
Genus:	Turbonilla
Species:	T. melea
Binomial name
Turbonilla melea Bartsch, 1927
Synonyms
Turbonilla (Ptycheulimella) melea Bartsch in Dall, 1927

Turbonilla melea is a species of sea snail within the family Pyramidellidae, which includes marine gastropods commonly known as pyramid snails. These snails are characterized by their small size, elongated shells, and often intricate shell sculpture. They are typically found in marine environments, often on sandy or muddy substrates.

Taxonomy

Turbonilla melea is a marine gastropod that belongs to the Kingdom Animalia and the Phylum Mollusca. Within this phylum, it is classified under the Class Gastropoda, which includes all snails and slugs. More specifically, Turbonilla melea falls within the Order Neotaenioglossa, known for its diverse range of small to medium-sized snails. This species is a member of the Family Pyramidellidae, which is characterized by its pyramid-shaped shells and a parasitic or ectoparasitic lifestyle in many cases. The genus Turbonilla includes numerous species of small, elongated snails with intricate shell patterns, and Turbonilla melea is one such species, distinguished by its specific shell morphology and habitat preferences within this family.

Description

*Turbonilla melea* is a small marine gastropod known for its distinctive shell features and slender, elongated form. The shell of this species is typically conical and exhibits a smooth, shiny surface with finely spaced axial ribs and spiral striae, giving it a somewhat sculpted appearance. It generally has a light, often translucent coloration, though details can vary depending on environmental conditions. The shell’s aperture is narrow, and the overall shape contributes to its streamlined, graceful look.

Like other members of the Pyramidellidae family, *Turbonilla melea* has a parasitic lifestyle, feeding on other marine invertebrates. Its small size and specialized shell make it well-adapted to its ecological niche, where it can be found in various marine habitats, often burrowed into sand or mud substrates. The precise ecological role and behavior of *Turbonilla melea* can vary, but it typically shares the general traits and habits of other pyramid snails in its family.

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Distribution

References

1. Dall, W. H. 1927. Small shells from dredgings off the southeast coast of the United States by the United States Fisheries Steamer 'Albatross' in 1885 and 1886. Proceedings of the United States National Museum 70(2667): 1-134.

External links

• Encyclopedia of Life
• USNM Invertebrate Zoology Mollusca Collection
• ITIS
• World Register of Marine Species

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