Terefundus quadricinctus unicarinatus facts for kids

The Terefundus quadricinctus unicarinatus is a type of sea snail. It's a small creature that lives in the ocean. This snail belongs to a group of animals called mollusks, which also includes clams and octopuses. It's part of the gastropod family, which means it has a single shell and moves on a muscular "foot." Specifically, it's in the Muricidae family, often called murex snails or rock snails.

Meet the Terefundus Snail!

The Terefundus quadricinctus unicarinatus is a fascinating example of a subspecies of sea snail. Think of a subspecies as a special group within a species that has unique features or lives in a specific area. This particular snail is a marine animal, meaning it lives only in the ocean. Like all snails, it carries its home, a shell, on its back.

What is a Sea Snail?

Sea snails are amazing creatures that have lived in our oceans for millions of years. They are part of the mollusk family, which is a very diverse group of soft-bodied animals. Most sea snails have a hard, spiral shell that protects their soft body. They move slowly using a strong, muscular foot. Many sea snails are scavengers, eating dead plants and animals, while others are predators, hunting smaller creatures.

Where Does It Live?

This specific sea snail, Terefundus quadricinctus unicarinatus, has a very special home. It is found only in New Zealand. When an animal or plant is found only in one specific place in the world, we say it is "endemic" to that area. This means you won't find this exact snail anywhere else on Earth!