Zafra is a large genus of sea snails in the family Columbellidae, the dove snails.[1]

Zafra
Shell of Zafra cinnamomea
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Gastropoda
Subclass: Caenogastropoda
Order: Neogastropoda
Superfamily: Buccinoidea
Family: Columbellidae
Genus: Zafra
Adams, 1860
Type species
Zafra mitriformis
A. Adams, 1860
Synonyms
  • Anachis (Zafra) A. Adams, 1860 ·
  • Columbella (Zafra)A. Adams, 1860 ·
  • Pyrene (Zafra) A. Adams, 1860 ·

Description

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The shells are typically small. They are elongated and conical, often featuring sculptured patterns of fine ribs or spiral ridges. The aperture of the shell is usually narrow and elongated, with a distinct, but short siphonal canal. The shells are often adorned with intricate patterns, including coloration variations.

Distribution

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These gastropods are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical seas, inhabiting various marine environments such as rocky shores, sandy bottoms, and coral reefs.

Feeding behavior

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Zafra snails are carnivorous predators. They use a specialized proboscis to capture and consume their prey. Once captured, the prey is immobilized, and digestive enzymes are secreted to break down the tissues for ingestion.

Species

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As of August 2020, there are about 80 species within the genus Zafra:

Synonyms:

References

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  1. ^ MolluscaBase eds. (2023). MolluscaBase. Zafra A. Adams, 1860. Accessed through: World Register of Marine Species at: https://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=182802 on 22 September 2023
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