Pascula ozenneana

Pascula ozenneana is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails.

Description
The shell of Pascula ozenneana is small and solid, typically reaching a length of around 10 to 20 millimeters. It has a high-spired, conical shape, which is characteristic of many columbellid snails.

The shell's coloration can vary, but it often features a pattern of brown, cream, and white hues. The color patterns can include bands, spots, or streaks, which provide camouflage against the rocky substrates and coral reefs where it resides.

The shell surface is generally smooth but may have fine axial ribs or spiral grooves that add to its structural integrity and aesthetic appearance.

The aperture, or opening of the shell, is elongated and narrow, often with a thickened outer lip. The inner lip may be smooth or slightly denticulated (toothed).

This species has an operculum, which is a small, calcareous or horny plate that the snail uses to close the aperture when retracted into the shell. The operculum helps protect the snail from predators and desiccation.

The body of Pascula ozenneana, like other gastropods, is soft and consists of a head, a muscular foot, and visceral organs. The head bears tentacles with eyes at their bases, and the foot is used for locomotion.

Distribution
Pascula ozenneana is a marine gastropod mollusk predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution spans from the eastern coast of Africa, across the Indian Ocean, to the central and western Pacific Ocean. Specific locations where this species is recorded include the Red Sea, the coasts of East African countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, the islands of the Indian Ocean like the Seychelles, Mauritius, and the Maldives, as well as the western Pacific islands including the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and parts of northern Australia.

The species favors shallow marine environments, particularly coral reefs and rocky substrates, which offer essential crevices and hiding spots. Pascula ozenneana is typically found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 30 meters. These habitats provide the necessary conditions for its survival, including protection from predators and access to food sources.

The regions where Pascula ozenneana is found generally have warm, tropical climates with stable sea temperatures that support coral reef ecosystems. These environmental conditions are vital for the growth and proliferation of marine flora and fauna, making them ideal habitats for this snail. The wide distribution of Pascula ozenneana across diverse marine environments highlights its adaptability and underscores the importance of preserving healthy coral reef systems to maintain the biodiversity of such species.