Zebra Nerite (or alternate name: Banded Nerite)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Vittina, Species: Vittina virginea · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Vittina virginea
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 inches in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.4 to 0.8 inches.
Color & Pattern
Striking pattern of alternating dark black/brown and pale whitish-cream bands or stripes running horizontally across the whorls. The coloration is natural and sharp.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Found in shallow estuarine waters, brackish mangrove swamps, and river mouths on hard substrates like rocks and wood. It is a brackish to marine species.
Geographic Range
Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and tropical Western Atlantic including the coast of Texas.
Description
A small, sturdy, globular gastropod shell featuring a low spire and a smooth, polished exterior. The aperture is semicircular with a toothed outer lip and a flat inner columellar shelf. The bold zebra-like banding makes it visually distinct.
Key Features
Globular shape, low spire, flat columellar deck, and high-contrast dark and light transverse banding.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, primarily collected as a novelty or decorative piece by beachcombers rather than high-end specialists.
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor wear on the apex, but retaining strong color contrast and pattern integrity. Collectibility grade is Fine.
Interesting Facts
Nerites are famous for their tough operculum and their ability to withstand varying salinities, moving between freshwater streams and brackish estuaries.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important herbivore, grazing on microalgae and biofilm on rocks and mangrove roots, serving as a food source for fish and shorebirds.
Similar Species
Neritina punctulata and Nerita peloronta, which can be distinguished by different spot patterns or preference for purely marine environments.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along estuarine beaches, high-tide wrack lines, and near marshy grass beds after storm events.
Notes
Surfside Beach Texas