Littorina sitkana

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Littorina sitkana 01

Littorina sitkana is a species of small marine gastropod mollusk in the family Littorinidae, commonly known as the periwinkles. This species is found in the intertidal zone of the North Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of North America and Asia.

Description

Littorina sitkana has a robust, globular shell that can vary in color from dark brown to black, often with lighter banding. The shell typically reaches a height of about 15-20 mm. The aperture is oval, and the operculum is horny and concentric. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females generally being larger than males.

Habitat

Littorina sitkana inhabits the intertidal zone, where it can be found on rocks, in tide pools, and among seaweeds. It is well adapted to withstand the harsh conditions of the intertidal environment, including exposure to air, fluctuating temperatures, and varying salinity levels.

Distribution

This species is distributed along the coasts of the North Pacific Ocean, from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska down to California in North America, and from the Kuril Islands to Japan in Asia.

Ecology

Littorina sitkana plays a significant role in the intertidal ecosystem. It grazes on algae, helping to control algal growth and maintain the balance of the ecosystem. It is also a prey item for various predators, including birds, fish, and other marine invertebrates.

Reproduction

Littorina sitkana is oviparous, with females laying eggs in gelatinous masses attached to the substrate. The larvae are planktonic and undergo several developmental stages before settling and metamorphosing into juvenile snails.

Related Species

Littorina sitkana is closely related to other species in the genus Littorina, such as Littorina littorea and Littorina obtusata. These species share similar habitats and ecological roles but can be distinguished by differences in shell morphology and coloration.

Research and Importance

Littorina sitkana is often studied in marine biology and ecology due to its abundance and ecological significance in the intertidal zone. Research on this species can provide insights into the effects of environmental changes on intertidal communities.

Related Pages

• Littorinidae
• Littorina
• Intertidal zone
• Marine gastropod
• Algae