TURBINIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Turbinidae is a term used in zoology to refer to a family of marine gastropod mollusks commonly known as turban snails. This family belongs to the class Gastropoda, which comprises the largest and most diverse class of mollusks, known for their coiled shells. Turbinidae is one of the largest families within this class and includes a wide range of species that can be found in various marine habitats worldwide.
The distinguishing characteristic of turban snails is their spiral-shaped, turbinate shells, which are typically high-spired and often display intricate patterns and vibrant colors. These shells often exhibit a series of whorls, with each subsequent whorl slightly larger than the previous, creating a distinctive turban-like appearance from which the snails derive their common name.
These gastropods usually possess a well-developed muscular foot used for locomotion and a head bearing sensory organs such as tentacles with eyes. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and other plant material found on rocky shores or coral reefs. Turban snails are known for their relatively slow movement and are generally considered to be grazers, actively moving across surfaces to feed on available plant matter.
Due to their attractive shells, turban snails have been collected for centuries by shell collectors and are also sometimes used in the creation of shell crafts or for decorative purposes. Some species may also be consumed as food in certain regions. With their diverse adaptations and widespread distribution, Turbinidae plays an important ecological role within marine ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and providing a food source for other organisms.
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An extensive family of molluses, having spiral, top-shaped, or pyramidal shells.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TURBINIDAE
- rurbinidae
- furbinidae
- gurbinidae
- yurbinidae
- 6urbinidae
- 5urbinidae
- tyrbinidae
- thrbinidae
- tjrbinidae
- tirbinidae
- t8rbinidae
- t7rbinidae
- tuebinidae
- tudbinidae
- tufbinidae
- tutbinidae
- tu5binidae
- tu4binidae
- turvinidae
- turninidae
Etymology of TURBINIDAE
The word "Turbinidae" is derived from the Latin word "turbo", which means "spinning top" or "whirlwind". The suffix "-idae" is used in taxonomy to identify a family of organisms. Therefore, "Turbinidae" refers to a family of marine gastropod mollusks known as "turban snails". These snails have tightly coiled spiral shells, resembling the shape of a spinning top, hence the name derived from Latin.
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