Aporrhais

/æˈpɒreɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of small sea snails with distinctive spiral shells, commonly found in shallow coastal waters.

Etymology

From Greek 'aporrhaos' (flowing forth, discharging), named for the way these snails project from their shells. The genus was formally established in the 18th century by naturalists studying marine invertebrates.

Kelly Says

The name 'aporrhais' means 'flowing forth,' which is fitting because when these snails stick their heads out of their spiral shells, they create little fountain-like water currents as they filter feed—nature's plumbing.

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