Vitularia minima is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Muricidae, commonly known as the murex snails or rock snails [1]. This species was formally described by Edward Vredenburg in 1925 [1, 2].
Description
While a detailed, standalone morphological description of Vitularia minima is not extensively available, general characteristics can be inferred from its genus, Vitularia. Species within Vitularia are known for their distinct shell morphology, which often includes a combination of fine axial riblets, spiral cords, and a somewhat granular or rugose (wrinkled) texture [3]. They are generally characterized by an ovate to fusiform shell shape with a moderately elevated spire. The specific epithet "minima" suggests that this species is notably small compared to other members of its genus or family.
The family Muricidae is broadly recognized for its robust, often spiny or nodulose shells, and a well-developed siphonal canal. Members are typically predatory and use their radula to drill into the shells of their prey [3].
The original description by Vredenburg in 1925 would provide the most precise morphological details for V. minima [2].
Distribution
Vitularia minima is a marine species with its distribution recorded in the Indo-Pacific Ocean [1]. Specifically, it has been found off the coast of India [1]. Given the general distribution of other Vitularia species across the Indo-Pacific, it is possible that its range extends beyond just India, though further research is needed to confirm a broader distribution.
Habitat and Ecology
As a marine gastropod, Vitularia minima inhabits the coastal and subtidal zones of the Indo-Pacific. While specific details about its preferred habitat, such as substrate type (e.g., sandy, muddy, rocky bottoms) or precise depth range, are not widely published, other Vitularia species are generally found in shallow to moderate depths [3]. They are benthic, living on or near the seabed.
Like other members of the family Muricidae, Vitularia minima is a predatory marine snail. Muricids typically feed on other invertebrates, such as bivalves and other gastropods, by drilling a hole through their shells using their radula and an accessory boring organ. While specific dietary details for V. minima are not available, it likely follows similar predatory behaviors characteristic of its family.
Taxonomy and Synonyms
Vitularia minima is classified within the following taxonomic hierarchy [1]:
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Gastropoda
Subclass: Caenogastropoda
Order: Neogastropoda
Superfamily: Muricoidea
Family: Muricidae Rafinesque, 1815 (murex snails or rock snails)
Genus:Vitularia Swainson, 1840
Species:Vitularia minima Vredenburg, 1925
The original binomial name for this species was Vitularia minima Vredenburg, 1925 [1, 2], indicating it was described directly under the genus Vitularia. The genus Vitularia was established by William Swainson in 1840 [3].
Synonyms for Vitularia minima are currently not listed in major taxonomic databases like the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) [1]. This suggests that the species has maintained its original classification since its description, or any potential synonyms have not yet been formally recognized or published.
[2] Vredenburg, E. (1925). Descriptions of Mollusca from the Post-Eocene Tertiary Formations of North-Western India: Cephalopoda, Opisthobranchiata, Pulmonata, and Prosobranchiata (in part). Memoirs of the Indian Museum. 7: 1-325, pls 1-33.
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