Calyptraea chinensis (Linnaeus, 1758)

Description

Relatively thin shell up to 15mm across and 5mm high. White or yellow in colour. There is a tongue shaped shelf within the shell. Outside of the shell is lightly sculptured with growth lines parallel to the edge.

Key identification features

Conical shell containing a distinctive tongue shaped 'shelf'

Ecology

Generally found on shells or under stones on sheltered shores. Feeds by filtering particles from the plankton.

Distribution and status

Non-native species

Photo:

Image © Steve Wilkinson

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Recorded UK distribution

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