Black Nerite

Appearance

The size of the shell varies between 12 mm and 32 mm.

Naming

There has been some confusion over the taxonomy of the genus ''Nerita'' in the Pacific region; however, ''Nerita atramentosa'' and ''Nerita melanotragus'' are now recognised as separate species.

Distribution

This nerite is endemic to the southern coastlands of Australia, including South Australia, southern Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania.

N. atramentosa occurs to the west of Wilsons Promontory in western Victoria, South Australia and southern Western Australia. The closely related species ''Nerita melanotragus'' occurs in eastern Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania.

Habitat

This species is commonly found on intertidal rocks, particularly in the mid to upper intertidal zone. It prefers to attach to sloped or vertical rock surfaces, or hang from the underside of rocks. This may be a method of thermoregulation, as if ''N. atramentosa'' is on a horizontal surface, it will absorb the maximum solar radiation.

By contrast, if it is on a greater angle to the sun, it absorbs less energy . ''N. atramentosa'' exhibits trail following behaviour. The species feeds by scraping epilithic algae using their radula. Nerites are preyed upon by reef crabs .