| Fusiturricula sunderlandi | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Shell of Fusiturricula sunderlandi (holotype at the Smithsonian Institution) | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Gastropoda |
| Subclass: | Caenogastropoda |
| Order: | Neogastropoda |
| Superfamily: | Conoidea |
| Family: | Drilliidae |
| Genus: | Fusiturricula |
| Species: | F. sunderlandi |
| Binomial name | |
| Fusiturricula sunderlandi Petuch, 1990 [1] | |
Fusiturricula sunderlandi is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Drilliidae. [2] [3]
Fusiturricula sunderlandi is characterized by a slender, elongated shell that typically grows to a length of 33 mm. The shell surface exhibits fine axial ribs and spiral sculpture, giving it a slightly textured appearance. The aperture is narrow and elongated, while the siphonal canal is well-defined, reflecting its predatory lifestyle. The coloration is generally pale, ranging from off-white to light beige, with subtle brown markings in some specimens. [2] [3]
As a member of the family Drilliidae, it is presumed to be carnivorous, feeding primarily on small invertebrates in its habitat. Like other drilliids, it possesses a radula adapted for drilling into prey, although specific feeding behavior has not been extensively documented.
This species occurs in the demersal zone of the Caribbean Sea off Panama at a depth of 70 m. It is typically found on sandy or muddy substrates near coral reef edges, where it can hunt for prey. Its distribution appears to be limited to this region, suggesting it may have a relatively narrow ecological range, although further research may reveal a broader habitat.
Little is known about the ecology of Fusiturricula sunderlandi. Like other drilliid gastropods, it is likely nocturnal, spending the day buried in sediment to avoid predators and emerging at night to feed. Its role in the marine ecosystem is primarily as a small predator, contributing to the regulation of benthic invertebrate populations.
Currently, there is no specific conservation assessment for Fusiturricula sunderlandi. Due to its limited known distribution, habitat disturbance or changes in the Caribbean marine environment could potentially impact local populations. Further surveys and monitoring are recommended to better understand its abundance and potential threats.