Feeding
There are two main feeding strategies within the Cypraeidae family; one group feeds on sponges while the other lives a herbivorous lifestyle (Ruppert et.al, 2004). Marine herbivores are either microphagous browsers that feed on fine algae or macrophages specializing in macroalgae, such as kelps and other seaweed (Ruppert et. al, 2004). L. vitellus prefers the diet of a microphagous herbivore, feeding on algae found in shallower water. Feeding occurs via the proboscis which is a part of the digestive tract containing the esophagus, buccal cavity, and radula that is housed in a proboscis sheath (Ruppert et.al, 2004).
The radula is a tongue-like organ used by cowries to rasp along surfaces when scouring for food. It consists of a ribbon-like membrane with mounted rows of tiny teeth that point backwards (Ruppert et.al, 2004). Complex muscles move the radula and odontophore (supporting cartilage) in and out of the mouth (Ruppert et.al, 2004). As the teeth are worn away, new rows are continually produced (Ruppert et.al, 2004). Each row bears a median tooth, with lateral and marginal teeth appearing on either side (Ruppert et.al, 2004). The median, lateral, and marginal teeth usually differ from one another in shape and structure, whilst providing different functions (Ruppert et. al, 2004). The shape, size and structure of the teeth is unique for each species, and is important in classification and identification. In cowries, the radula consists of rows of seven teeth, a pattern termed taenioglossate (“bandlike”) (Ruppert et.al, 2004).
Proboscis of L. vitellus which houses the esophagus and radula.
Image by Chelsea Waters
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