General Description

Shell conical, wider than high. Lower part of shell white with narrow black stripes, upper part white to cream at the point (apex). Top of shell often appears worn. Shell up to 2 cm across.

Biology

These conniwinks form groups in crevices and rock depressions. Two related species live underwater in sheltered areas on mud and sand. They are grazers, feeding on algae. Females lay small ovoid jelly masses, which they attach to sheltered areas, such as the underside of rocks. There are up to 200 eggs in each mass, from which larvae hatch into the plankton before settling and undergoing metamorphosis after an unknown time.

Distribution

Southern mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Habitat

Upper intertidal zone on rocky reefs.

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