The Odd Little Limpet Shell

The Limpet shell is quite different than what you think of as a “sea shell”.   It is round or oval and cone shaped, like a little volcano or pointed hat, or they can also be almost flat.  Their shape is influenced by their habitat.  The ones that live where there is more wave action have the lower shell, while the ones who live in calmer water will have a higher shell.

There are two types of Limpets, the Keyhole Limpets (Fissurellidae) differ from the Limpets (Acmaeidae) because of the holes or slits found in the top of their shells. Check out the links below for pictures of Limpets.

Striped False Limpet
Giant Owl Limpet
Barbados Keyhole Limpet
Cayenne Keyhole Limpet

View more seashell photos on my Squidoo page:  Seashell Identification

Author: Pam

Spending time on the water is the best, and blogging about the sea life found along the saltwater river and ocean is what I do. I’m also a designer at Zazzle and sell my work, with a lot of ocean themes, on the site. View all posts by Pam