Black turban snails, age 30, at Asilomar Beach.
Caption: A snail’s radula tongue rasps algae.
Why are there so many black snails at the tidepools? Find out their purpose and their role in the Coastal habitat.
The black tegula snail or tegula funebralis, is a species commonly found on the California, Oregon and Washington coasts. These distinct gastropods can grow up to two inches in length and are easily identifiable by their dark-colored or purple shells with worn down white tops. They inhabit the intertidal zone, usually found in rocky areas along the coastline. Black tegula snails play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity as herbivores. They primarily feed on algae, helping to control its abundance and promoting the growth of other marine organiswhat dos. Additionally, their presence also provides food for predators such as shorebirds and crabs that rely on them as a dietary source.
The black tegulas are usually found in high numbers in California's tidepools. Found in the middle intertidal zone, the snails are the easiest to find and most abundant snails in our state. Although a tidepooler might see them but not pay attention, they are very fascinating.
First, they use a tongue called a radula to scrape algae off rocks. That's why many are gathered in clusters - to find food.
Second - They provide a home for limpets,. the black limpet lottia asmi may be found eating algae off the snail. The limpet travels from snail to snail each day, which shows a mutual relationship. Black limpets benefit from the snails, and in return the snails are cleaned by the limpet.
Without turban snails in the wild, invasive algae may take over, and pollute our oceans.They are efficient grazers that feed on encrusting algae found on rocky substrates. Their feeding behavior helps to maintain a healthy balance of algae and prevent excessive overgrowth that can carry bacteria.
The black tegula snails use their radula, a specialized feeding tongue, to scrape and consume the algae. They usually eat fast-growing species such as Ulva and Porphyra, which are the same Japanese species that we consume as snacks. By selectively consuming these algae, the snails create space for slower-growing and more diverse species to establish themselves in the ecosystem. This process enables greater biodiversity and promotes the overall ecosystem along the California coast.
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