Bleeding Tooth Nerite or similar Nerite snail
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Cycloneritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Nerita, Species: Nerita peloronta · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Nerita peloronta
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.5 to 1.25 inches.
Color & Pattern
Mottled white, yellow, and purplish-pink patterns with characteristic blood-red staining near the teeth on the inner lip. Colors appear somewhat weathered and sun-bleached on the exterior surface.
Rarity
Common in appropriate rocky habitats, though finding specimens with good color can require dedicated searching.
Habitat
High-intertidal zone, typically found on rocky shores, limestone formations, and splash zones above the high tide mark.
Geographic Range
Tropical Western Atlantic, including South Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean Sea, and the West Indies down to northern South America.
Description
A thick, sturdy globose snail shell with a low spire and heavy sculpture consisting of fine spiral ribs. The aperture features a flattened inner lip (columella) adorned with distinctive teeth and a bright red spot that resembles a bleeding tooth.
Key Features
Heavy calcareous shell, low spire, flattened columella with distinct teeth, and the diagnostic red stain resembling a bleeding tooth on the inner lip.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value. Popular among beginner shell collectors and beachcombers due to its unique appearance and common presence in tourist areas.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; shows moderate exterior wear and sun-bleaching typical of high-intertidal exposure, but the structural form remains largely intact.
Interesting Facts
The common name 'Bleeding Tooth' comes from the striking red markings on the inner lip that look remarkably like a bleeding wound. These snails are capable of breathing air and can survive out of water for extended periods by sealing their operculum.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important herbivore in the high-intertidal ecosystem, grazing on microalgae and biofilm from rocks, and serving as a food source for coastal birds and crabs.
Similar Species
Other nerite species such as the Checkered Nerite (Nerita tessellata) and Green Nerite (Nerita fulgurans), which lack the distinct red 'bleeding tooth' marking.
Beach Finding Tips
Search rocky limestone shorelines, jetties, and tide pool splash zones at low tide, looking closely in crevices where these snails hide from the sun.