#macroschisma

[drhoz]

#3567 - Macroschisma munitum - Ridge-Backed Keyhole Limpet

 Distinguished from true limpets by the breathing hole or slit on top of the shell. Oxygenated water enters under the edge of the shell near the head and passes over large paired gills, then out through the slit along with with waste products.

The family is usually found on or under rocks in the lower intertidal zone, and deeper waters. Most feed on plants and debris, but some prey on sponges, foraminifera, and diatoms.

Point Peron, Perth

[drhoz]

#1033 - Macroschisma producta - Elongate Slit-limpet

Another slit-limpet, this time with the hole in the shell shifted towards the rear, and a rectangular ridge at the front.

Found along the western and southern coastlines, although the Atlas of Living Australia also places a few sighting in the vicinity of Ayres Rock. Methinks somebody goofed (or, more likely, just had ‘Australia’ as the locality data.)

Point Peron, Perth