Lifestyle
I am a gastropod. Most gastropods have a shell and a muscular foot that we use to move around. Snails and sea slugs are also gastropods.
I spend most of my time hiding under rocks or dead coral on the reef. I mostly come out at night to look for food. I may look harmless, but I'm a predator. I have many rows of teeth that I can use to crunch and scrape up my food.
Fun Facts
I have a very beautiful glossy shell. In ancient times, my shell was used as money!
I wrap part of my body, called the mantle, around the outside of my shell. My mantle will build my shell and protect it from being damaged. That is how my shell stays shinier and cleaner than other snails. But my shell also protects me! If a predator scares me I can hide my entire body in my shell.
Menu
I like to eat turf algae and fire coral and I will also eat anemones and sponges. The anemone's stinging cells don't scare me and I am immune to the toxins of the sponge! I eat plants and animals, so I am an omnivore.
Threats
Many people think my shell is very beautiful, and they like to use me in jewelry. People must be careful they don't take too many of me out of the reef!
Reefs are in danger, and that means so is my home!
