General Description

The shells of this species are variable, usually being small, quite solid, globular in shape and tinged with a distinctive deep pink purple. Exterior shell sculpture variable, some specimens have broad concentric ridges. Shell up to 5 mm across.

Biology

This species is resistant to desiccation when exposed to high temperatures or low humidity. Individuals live attached by threads (byssus) to the sea floor, often nestling among sessile invertebrates such as worm tubes and among the byssal threads of mussels. All members of this genus brood their young, but this species appears to be the only one that then releases them into the plankton, where they feed before settling and becoming adults. Other species release more developed crawl-away juveniles.

Distribution

Southern Australia.

Habitat

Mid-intertidal areas.

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