Home > Invertebrates > Shells > Limpets > Sabia australis

Updated 3/26/2013

Family Hipponicidae

INDO-PACIFIC / HAWAII

Sabia australis

Kapoho tidepool, Hawaii

 

 

Haleiwa Trench, Oahu, 20 feet

 

SOUTHERN HOOF SHELL

Found attached to snails, usually several on one host.  Spire curves backward, typically overhanging the posterior margin in adults, weak radiating ribs with concentric growth rings.  Attains 1/2 inch.  May feed upon feces of host snail or hermit crab.  Leaves deep scar and shelly plate on host shell.  Sabia conica is also found on gastropods, with strong ribs and spire never extending beyond the shell margin.  Hawaii & the Indo-Pacific.