Tessellated Nerite or Zebra Nerite
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Cycloneritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Nerita, Species: Nerita tessellata · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape with a globose form
Species
Nerita tessellata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape with a globose form
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter.
Color & Pattern
Featuring a striking blackish or dark grey base with intricate, sharp white or cream-colored checkered or zig-zag tessellated markings. The pattern is natural, crisp, and high-contrast, covering the entire globose exterior.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Found primarily in the high intertidal zone on rocky shores, limestone outcroppings, and jetty rocks, tolerating significant exposure to air and sun. It is a marine species.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and down to South America.
Description
A charming and sturdy little marine snail with a globose, low-spired shell. The surface features fine spiral lines and a smooth yet solid texture. The aperture is semi-circular with a toothed outer lip and a flattened columellar deck, typical of nerites, adapted for clinging tightly to rocks against strong wave action.
Key Features
Globose, low-spired shape, distinctive black-and-white checkered or zig-zag tessellated pattern, flattened inner lip with small teeth on the columella, and absence of a prominent umbilicus.
Collector Value
Very affordable and popular among beginner shell collectors and crafters, usually valued under a few dollars per specimen.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in great condition, intact, with vibrant original coloration and minimal wear. Collectibility grade is Fine to Good.
Interesting Facts
Nerites possess an operculum (trapdoor) and can breathe air for short periods when exposed during low tide. They graze on microscopic algae using a ribbon-like radula.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important algae grazer on rocky shores, helping to control algal growth and serving as a food source for shorebirds and carnivorous marine snails.
Similar Species
Bleeding Tooth Nerite (Nerita peloronta) which features reddish-orange 'teeth' near the aperture, and the Four-toothed Nerite (Nerita versicolor) which has a more banded, colorful appearance.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky intertidal zones, seawalls, and limestone rocks during low tide. They are often clustered together in crevices or depressions in the rock.