Common periwinkle

Common Periwinkle

Common Periwinkle
Scientific classification
Species:	[[Template:Taxonomy/Littorina]]'''L. littorea'''
Binomial name
[[Template:Taxonomy/Littorina]]L. littorea (Linnaeus, 1758)

The Common Periwinkle (Littorina littorea) is a species of sea snail belonging to the family Littorinidae. It is commonly found in the intertidal zone of rocky shores in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, including the coasts of Europe and North America.

Description

The Common Periwinkle has a small, conical shell that can reach up to 4 centimeters in length. The shell is usually dark brown or black, with spiral ridges and a pointed apex. The snail itself has a soft body, with a head that bears two pairs of tentacles and a muscular foot used for locomotion.

Distribution and Habitat

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Distribution of the Common Periwinkle

The Common Periwinkle is native to the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from the coasts of Norway and Iceland to the shores of Portugal and Morocco. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including the northeastern coast of North America.

This species is commonly found in the intertidal zone, where it inhabits rocky shores and tide pools. It is well adapted to withstand the harsh conditions of this environment, including exposure to air during low tide and wave action during high tide.

Ecology and Behavior

The Common Periwinkle is a herbivorous snail that feeds on algae and other plant material. It uses its radula, a specialized feeding organ, to scrape off and consume the algae from rocks and other surfaces. This feeding behavior can have significant ecological impacts, as it can influence the composition of algal communities in the intertidal zone.

Common Periwinkles are also known for their ability to withstand desiccation and temperature extremes. During low tide, they retreat into their shells and seal the opening with a layer of mucus to prevent water loss. They can also tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from freezing to high summer temperatures.

Human Uses

File:Periwinkle shells.jpg

Periwinkle shells

The Common Periwinkle has been used by humans for various purposes throughout history. In some coastal communities, it is harvested for food, with the snails being boiled or pickled. The shells of the Common Periwinkle are also popular for crafts and jewelry.

In addition, the Common Periwinkle has been studied for its potential medicinal properties. It contains compounds that have shown promise in the treatment of certain types of cancer, as well as other diseases.

Conservation

The Common Periwinkle is not currently considered to be a species of conservation concern. Its populations are generally stable, and it has a wide distribution range. However, like many intertidal species, it may be vulnerable to habitat loss and pollution.