Description
Astralium calcar, commonly known as the spurred star snail or ninja star snail, is a marine gastropod in the family Turbinidae with a, 3–6 cm, thick, conoid, and spiny shell. It is known for its grayish-green or brownish, star-shaped shell with radiating spines, often used in reef aquariums for algae control.
Physical Description
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Shell Structure: The shell is flat-conical, featuring around 12, radiating, flattened spines on the body whorl. The shell is robust with roughly six whorls and a heavily sculptured appearance.
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Coloration: The shell color is typically grayish-green or brownish-cinereous. The interior of the aperture is glossy, often gold, purple, or blue.
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Size: They typically reach 18–50 mm, with some growing up to 6 cm.
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Operculum: The species possesses a calcareous, thick, and small, roughly hemispherical operculum with a smooth surface.
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Body: The body is pale with fine, black stripes and long, banded tentacles.
Habitat and Behavior
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Origin: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, from Japan through Indonesia to Australia.
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Environment: They inhabit rocky shores and coral reefs in shallow waters.
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Diet: They are herbivores, foraging for algae, microalgae, and biofilm.
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Aquarium Use: Astralium calcar is considered a hardy, peaceful, and effective algae grazer, suitable for reef aquariums
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Activity: They are mostly nocturnal and often hide during the day, occasionally camouflaging themselves with algae.
