General Description

Shell rough with distinct raised spiral ridges. Short pointed end (spire). Usually white or grey, sometimes with light or dark zigzag lines or stripes. Shell up to 2 cm long.

Biology

Ribbed Top Shells are often referred to as Periwinkles, but they are not related to the European shells of this name. Other top shells in this genus also live in south-eastern Australia and have various striped and checked patterns. All of them are grazers, feeding on algae.

Distribution

Eastern and southern mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Habitat

Mud and rocks in the intertidal zone.

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