I think this tiny shell is a diloma. That is a mussel shell that it is cruising on.
Was Zediloma atrovirens [Philippi] a common tidal zone shell where rocks are present. Listed AWB Powell, Shells of New Zealand, Plate 8 #11.
Can't be found in WoRMS or NZ Mollusca by either Genus or specific epithet. Mystified as to why it isn't in WoRMS at least as an antiquated name. Appears Suter p. 117 [= morio Suter non Troschel, 1851]
WoRMS lacks D. morio.
NB Close examination shows hole exposing umbilicus is damage. Please ignore this feature.
Some distinguishing features. Blue, freckled, apex turns through two distinct pitches [common in Diloma sp].
In beach drift in gravel and shell fragments at low tide. First one of this species for me...! Very fresh, possibly washed up because of the Tsunami. Found when I was digging the gravel to find some shells. Very rare to see them in Auckland. There are also some records of this species in Rodney, mainly by diving.
I will upload a photo of this specimen later.
In beach drift in gravel and shell fragments at low tide. First one of this species for me...! Very fresh, possibly washed up because of the Tsunami. Found when I was digging the gravel to find some shells. Very rare to see them in Auckland. There are also some records of this species in Rodney, mainly by diving.
I will upload a photo of this specimen later.
Only a couple of these very delicate shells found washed up with many tiny shells