About Zoila thersites (Gaskoin, 1849)
Zoila thersites (Gaskoin, 1849) is a species of cowry. Adult shells of this species measure between 56 and 116 millimetres (2.2 to 4.6 inches) in length. This is a quite rare species. Its shell has an oval shape with a narrow aperture. The dorsum is distinctly arched, while the almost flat base is pale brown. Both the outer and inner lips of the shell bear fine teeth. The shell surface is smooth and shiny, and ranges in base color from black to pale brown, with more or less dense coverage of large, irregular dark brown spots. Zoila thersites has very well-developed mantle and foot structures, and the mantle covers almost the entire shell. This species lays egg capsules that each hold a single fertilized egg; after hatching, the larva feeds on unfertilized nurse eggs. This endemic species is found only in marine waters along Southern Australia. Zoila thersites inhabits areas ranging from the intertidal zone down to deep reefs, and it prefers shallow waters near intertidal rocky seabeds. It actively hunts and feeds on sponges, foraminifera, algae, and small crustaceans at dawn and dusk.
