Shell shape variation and habitat characteristics of <i>Littorina undulata</i> (Gray, 1839) from Mandapam waters, east coast of India

Abstract

Shell size, shape and lipthickness of <i>L. undulata</i> were studied. High percentage of the larger shells (C), smaller shells (A) and medium shells (B) was collected respectively from low water, high water and mid water mark. In high water mark, mean shell height was low compared to mid water and low water mark. High percentage (20.52%) of damaged shells was observed in low water mark when compared to mid water and high water mark. Abundance of damaged shells and high value of lipthickness were observed in C type shells, while low values were observed from type A. These shell characteristics were correlated with age and habitat features.