Zebra Nerite / Bleeding Tooth (Nerita)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Cycloneritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Nerita, Species: Nerita peloronta · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod univalve with a semi-spherical and compact spiral shape
Species
Nerita peloronta (or related Nerita species)
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve with a semi-spherical and compact spiral shape
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range between 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Displays a warm brownish base with lighter whitish mottling and patchy calcified areas, showing signs of sun-bleaching and wear on the dorsal surface.
Rarity
Common in appropriate rocky intertidal habitats.
Habitat
Intersidal rocky shores, clinging to rocks and crevices in the splash zone, marine environments.
Geographic Range
Tropical and subtropical waters, commonly found in the Caribbean, Florida Keys, and the Bahamas.
Description
A compact, heavy, semi-spherical univalve shell with a low spire, smooth rounded body whorl, and sturdy architecture designed to withstand heavy wave action.
Key Features
Low spire, thick and sturdy calcified walls, rounded body whorl, and lack of a prominent extended siphonal canal.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value; popular among casual beachcombers and educational displays rather than high-end specialty collectors.
Condition Notes
Fair condition with surface wear, showing calcified patches and some bleaching from environmental exposure, typical of a beach-worn or shore-collected specimen.
Interesting Facts
Nerites are exceptionally hardy gastropods capable of surviving out of water for extended periods by sealing their operculum tightly to retain moisture.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important marine herbivore, grazing on films of microalgae on intertidal rocks, thereby helping to control algae growth and serving as a food source for coastal predators.
Similar Species
Other Nerita species such as Nerita tessellata or Nerita fulgurans, distinguished mainly by specific color patterns and dentition on the inner lip.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky outcroppings, limestone cliffs, and tide pools during low tide where these snails graze on microalgae.