The Conchological Society of Great Britain and Ireland
Helping to understand, identify, record, and conserve molluscs
Tectura virginea (O F Müller, 1776)Author & date of last revision: Steve Wilkinson on 10 July 2011
Acmaea virginea; Collisella virginea;
DescriptionConical shell up to 10mm in length. The surface of the shell is smooth. It is white or cream in colour with pink lines which are often broken giving a chequered pattern. Occasionally a pure white specimen may be found. Key identification features
Similar species
Ecology and behaviourLives attached to the underside of stable stones which have growths of red weed. Feeds on red algae especially Lithothamnion. Breeds in spring. Distribution and statusCommon Occurs throughout Europe on Atlantic and Med coasts. Place cursor on underlined words for pop-up definition. View full POP-UP GLOSSARY. 
Image ©
Steve Wilkinson 
Image © Steve Wilkinson
Additional imagesGALLERY of larger images of this species. Recorded UK distribution
Connection reset
|
