Catalina Cactussnail
Xerarionta kellettii
A small land snail native to Santa Catalina Island off southern California, often associated with dry coastal scrub, rocky slopes, and cactus-rich habitat. It feeds by rasping algae, fungi, decaying plant matter, and tender vegetation with a rough radula. During dry periods it retreats into its coiled shell and seals itself in with mucus to conserve moisture. Its sturdy shell is the main defense against drying out and small predators.
- Type
- Shell
- Conservation status
- NE