Longspine Starsnail

Lithopoma phoebium

Lithopoma phoebium is a medium-sized sea snail recognized for its distinctive long spine and shell structure. The maximum recorded shell length reaches up to 76 mm, making it a noticeable presence among the marine gastropods. This species can be identified by its turban-like shell, which is characteristic of the family Turbinidae. Divers may spot this snail clinging to surfaces in its natural habitat, often amongst algae or coral formations, where it blends into the environment.  This species inhabits the tropical waters of the Western Atlantic, with a distribution that includes regions such as Aruba, Belize, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico, among others. Lithopoma phoebium is typically found in reef-associated environments, residing in depths ranging from 0 to 91 meters. It thrives in various habitats including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and muddy bottoms, often found in association with algae and boulder structures.  The longspine starsnail is herbivorous, primarily feeding on algae, which it grazes from the surfaces it inhabits. The reproductive habits of this species involve a life cycle where embryos develop into planktonic larvae before maturing into adults. Encountering this snail while diving can be a pleasant experience, as they often remain stationary, allowing divers to observe their unique features up close. Conservation status for Lithopoma phoebium is currently listed as Not Evaluated.