Species

Invertebrates

Learn more about the invertebrates monitored by the LiMPETS program. The list below includes:

  • 17 core taxa that are monitored at as many sites as possible
  • 5 other taxa (denoted with *) that are monitored at only one or two sites

Go to Datasheets and Forms to find out which species are monitored at your LiMPETS site of interest.

Limpets(Lottia spp.)
Limpets
Description:
Limpets are a group of gastropod mollusks with one uncoiled cone-shaped or flattened shell. Their muscular foot helps them cling to rocks. There are a handful of Lottia species that inhabit the rocky intertidal of California: the shield limpet (L. pelta), ribbed limpet (L. austrodigitalis/digitalis), rough limpet (L. scabra), file limpet (L. limatula), owl limpet (L. gigantea), and others. These limpets range from 12 mm to 10 cm in size. Shell color varies, though most are brownish and mottled and are well camouflaged.
Distribution:
Varies by species. The Family Lottidae has worldwide distribution, although the greatest diversity is on the west coast of North America.
Habitat:
Most live intertidally, although some live on sea grasses and kelps. Many are common on vertical rock faces in the high intertidal and splash zone.
Diet:
Important grazers of algae, especially microscopic films of algae and diatoms, on rocky surfaces.
Fun Fact:
Limpets often remain motionless during low tide during the day, but move about and forage at night, mainly during low tide. Some limpets will return after grazing to their own unique resting spot on the rock known as a “home site.” On soft rock, they chew out a depression in which their shells just fit, but on hard rock their shell grows to fit the rock.
Reason for Monitoring:
Major grazers and prey for shorebirds.
References:
Morris, R.H., D.P. Abbott, and E.C. Haderlie. 1980. Intertidal Invertebrates of California. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California.
PALAEOS: The Trace of Life on Earth
Encyclopedia of the Sanctuary