Oryzatus Worm ShellThe Worm Shells of the Vermetidae Family are long and tubular small to medium sized shells that may be regularly or irregularly coiled. They begin life as typically spiraled gastropods, but soon cement themselves to a solid surface and begin to grow in loose coils. Some exist as individuals and others cement themselves into tightly interwoven colonies. Their external sculpting usually includes length-wise ridges, but may also consist of cross-wise ridges or scales. Most are whitish in color, but brown, purple, and yellow may also be seen. The interior of the shells is smooth and slightly glossy. This glossy interior allows these shells to be distinguished from the similar shells of annelid worms which are dull and chalky. Many, but not all, Worm Shells have an operculum.
Worm Snails are found attached to coral, pilings, rocks and other shells from the low intertidal zone to depths up to 900 feet. They are suspension feeders, either filtering suspended nutrients through their gills, or by extruding mucous nets into the water column to collect nutrients and then withdrawing the net to feed. In turn they are preyed upon by crabs, fish, and mollusks. They are found worldwide in tropical and temperate seas. There are more than one hundred fifty species in the Vermetidae Family of which nine are found in coastal waters of Baja.