Keys Simnia

Simnia spelta

Simnia spelta is a small marine snail that can reach a length of about 20 mm. Its shell is egg or cigar-shaped with a flattened base, characterized by a strong, thick, smooth, and glossy surface. The coloration of the shell varies based on the gorgonian it inhabits, featuring a white, yellow, pink, or orange background often adorned with spots, marbling, or streaks that provide effective camouflage. The soft parts of the snail typically match the color of the gorgonian, as it retains pigments from its host. This species is found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, including areas from the Bay of Biscay to the Canary Islands and Angola, as well as the western Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. It typically resides on gorgonians at depths of up to 10 metres. Simnia spelta is a specialist predator that feeds on the polyps and coenenchyme of gorgonians, particularly those from the genera Eunicella, Paramuricea, and Lophogorgia, without causing significant harm to the host. The breeding behavior of Simnia spelta involves internal fertilization, with separate sexes. Eggs are laid on the branches of the host gorgonian, resembling the natural warty appearance of the stems. Encounters with this species during dives can be intriguing, as divers may observe the snails camouflaging themselves against the gorgonian branches. The conservation status of Simnia spelta is currently not evaluated.