This richly illustrated book presents the diversity and natural history of sea snail groups. By integrating aspects of morphology, ecology, evolution and behaviour, it describes how each group copes with problems of defence, locomotion, nutrition, reproduction and embryonic development. First come general characteristics of the Mollusca, to which snails belong; and next, characteristics by which snails (Gastropoda) differ from other molluscs. Then a broad, panoramic view of all major sea snail groups, from the primitive to the more advanced, is presented, including both the more abundant and some remote ones of special interest. In detailing primitive sea snails, first limpets (Patellogastropoda) are described, followed by brush snails (Vetigastropoda: top-shells, turbans and allies) and nerites (Neritimorpha), a small group with remarkably high variation in shell colour and in habitats. In looking at advanced-snails (Caenogastropoda), it details the herbivorous grazers and filter-feeders and the many voracious predators, some which use venomous darts. The book also covers sea slugs (Opisthobranchia), which have shifted from mechanical to chemical defence; some are herbivores, some use their food to harness solar energy, others are predators that gain stinging cells and poisonous compounds from their food. In addition, readers will learn about aspects of sea snails in human culture, including use as sacred artefacts and objects of magic and money, as a source of the royal and sacred dyes of purple and blue and as holy ceremonial trumpets. The text, in which scientific terms are accompanied by parallel common ones, is accompanied by over 200 illustrations (mostly in colour). This comprehensive, insightful portrait of sea snails will appeal to marine biologists, zoology lecturers and students, biology teachers, field-school instructors, nature reserve wardens, amateur naturalists, as well as to lecturers and learners of human culture.

Patellogastropoda: Limpets....Pages 37-53
Vetigastropda: Brush Snails....Pages 55-78
Neritimorpha: Nerites....Pages 79-85
Front Matter....Pages 87-87
Functional Morphology: An Evolutionary Perspective....Pages 89-98
Grazers and Filter Feeders....Pages 99-148
Predators....Pages 149-200
Front Matter....Pages 201-201
Shell Degeneration: Sea Slugs and Relatives....Pages 203-255
Marine Ancestors of most Land Snails: Pulmonates....Pages 257-264
Front Matter....Pages 265-265
Magic, Status and Money....Pages 267-283
In Palaces and Shrines: Purple and Blue and Shekhelet ....Pages 285-305
Sacred Sounds from Sea Shells....Pages 307-318
Sexual Perversions....Pages 319-322