| Nassariidae are the nassa mud snails (commonly called dog whelks overseas). Their shells typically have well-developed spires with a short or no siphonal canal and a siphonal notch that is flexed slightly backward. Many have spiral and axial ribs. They are very small, usually less than 2 cm (3/4 in). They are usually found in shallow waters with muddy or sandy substrates. Their diet consists mainly of carrion and they have an elongate feeding apparatus (proboscis) to reach into cracks and crevices. There are 4 species found in Texas. |
