We conclude that both community level factors (species composition) and population characteristics (shell size distributions) may influence the local drilling frequency by moon snails. Anadara brasiliana, which generally is a thinner-shelled clam species, had the highest total drilling frequency (77.2%), and Noetia ponderosa, a thicker-shelled clam, had a considerably lower drilling frequency (12.0%). For A. ovalis and Mulinia lateralis, shells with larger lengths have lower probabilities of being bored by a moon snail. Folly Beach had nearly a 60% higher the overall drilling frequency (34.6%) versus Edisto Beach (21.8%), and this may be linked to the differences in clam community compositions at the sites. The species composition of clams differed significantly between the two beaches Anadara ovalis was dominant at both sites, but three of ten total species were only collected at one beach.

We collected a total of 1,879 clam shells, identified each shell to species and recorded their anteroposterior length. We examined the clam community composition at two beaches in South Carolina, USA, and we then tested moon snail predator preferences for (a) clam prey species and (b) whether their selection is related to prey shell size. Rarely, however, have studies tested relative drilling frequencies across species and size ranges in natural assemblages of clam communities. Some paleoecological and behavioral research on moon snails suggests a trend in predation preference directed toward clams with small shells. In this system, the predator bores through the shell of its prey, leaving a distinct and identifiable hole. Fascinating snail to observe in the wild.Moon snail predation on clams is a common model system of predator–prey interactions. When wet, the collar remains quite rubbery and pliable but becomes brittle when it dries out. The larvae move into deeper water and feed as herbivores on diatoms and sea lettuce for a while, then switch to shellfish as they grow. As the sand disintegrates over a period of weeks, the larvae are released into the water column. In between the layers of this sand, collar are thousands of eggs. It is a mixture composed of sand and mucus that forms a single gelatinous ribbon sand collar. In late spring and early summer, the egg case of the Lewis Moonsnail can be found. This animal is quite unique in its reproduction. The foot can form a siphon which they push through the hole and suck up the flesh of the clam. They use their foot to clamp onto the clamshell and then using their tongue, they can drill a hole in the clam’s shell. Moonsnails feed on clams, mussels, and other various mollusks, and sometimes they will even prey on their own species. Lewis Moonsnail Egg Case, Vancouver Island, BC, Photo By Bud Logan custom favors, tags, stickers, shirts, etc for weddings, showers, parties. The snail cannot stay in the shell for long periods because it needs to breathe. Moon Snail Creations, Orleans, Massachusetts. The animal can discharge water which allows it to shrink, slide into its shell and seal the opening by closing its operculum. When this fleshy mantle is extended, it will nearly cover the snail’s shell. Moonsnails glide on a very large, mucus-covered foot which, when fully extended, can be up to 30 cm long.

The life expectancy is from 2 to 3 years.

The shell is a yellowish-white to pale brown in color, almost round and quite large. This is the coastal region’s largest living sea snail, having a shell diameter that can reach 14 cm. Lewis Moonsnail, Vancouver Island, BC, Photo By Bud Logan Distinguishing Characteristics: The Moon Snails have oval, almost perfectly spherical shells with a D-shaped aperture.