Figured: S M Smith
Height: 30 mm

Patchily common living at mid-tide level on bedrock and boulder shores in Donegal and Northern Ireland as far east as Portballintrae (Blackler & McMillan, 1953; Nunn, 2006). Also recorded from off Portrush by Boyle, 1979, but no specimen available for confirmation. Recent records suggest that at present it seldom extends east of Malin Head, although it was found at Portballintrae in 2004. Also found in Lough Foyle in 2006. Found living amongst loose boulders (Fretter & Graham, 1988, stated that it avoids such shores). Feeds on microalgae and detritus. Here it is at the northern end of its range. All the records for the Clyde are of fossils. Nichols (1900) noted that it occurred on the west coast of Ireland only as far north as Donegal Bay. Records from Skye require confirmation.
Collections: NMI, NMSZ, UM

Copyright © Shelagh Smith & Julia Nunn