This is the Netted Dog Whelk (Tritia reticulata), a small scavenging sea snail with a distinctive reticulated (net-like) shell pattern. It is commonly found on rocky and sandy shores and plays an important role in coastal food webs by consuming carrion and organic material.

Location:
The Netted Dog Whelk occurs throughout the North-East Atlantic, including coasts of Britain and Ireland, western Europe, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. It is widely recorded from Morocco northwards, with scattered populations around European shorelines.

Average Size:
Adults typically grow to around 2-3 cm in shell height.

Family:
Nassariidae (Dog Whelks)

Species:
Tritia reticulata

Shell Description:
The shell is small and creamy-brown, with a pointed, straight-sided spire. Its surface has criss-crossing longitudinal and spiral ridges, creating a characteristic netted (reticulated) pattern. The oval aperture has a thickened and slightly toothed outer lip in mature individuals, with a pronounced siphonal canal at an oblique angle.

Habitat:
Netted Dog Whelks occur from the lower shore of rocky coasts down into sublittoral depths of around 15 metres. They can be found on rocky and sandy substrates and often bury themselves with only their siphon extended to detect food.

Feeding:
This species is a scavenger and detritivore, feeding on dead and decaying animal material. Individuals use their siphon to detect carrion buried in sediment and are frequently seen in large numbers on fresh food sources.

Movement and Behaviour:
Netted Dog Whelks are mobile and often bury themselves in sand or sediment with only the siphon protruding to sense food. They may be active at all times of year in suitable conditions.

Reproduction:
Females lay distinctive clear egg capsules containing many tiny yellow eggs. These capsules are attached to seagrass, seaweed, shells or under rocks. After hatching, larvae develop in the plankton before settling on the seabed as juvenile snails.

Ecological Role:
As a scavenger, the Netted Dog Whelk helps recycle organic material back into the ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling on rocky and sandy shores. Its eggs also provide a food source for other invertebrates.

Conservation Status:
This species is common in suitable habitats throughout its range and is not currently considered threatened.