marine gastropod crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "marine gastropod" in your crossword, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "marine gastropod crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WHELK: A predatory marine gastropod, often with a spiral shell.
CONCH: A large marine gastropod with a heavy, spiral shell, often tropical.
6 Letters
LIMPET: A marine gastropod with a low, conical shell, clinging to rocks.
NERITE: A small marine gastropod from the family Neritidae, found in warm seas.
10 Letters
PERIWINKLE: A small edible marine gastropod common on rocky shores.
More About "marine gastropod crossword clue"
Marine gastropods represent a vast and diverse group of molluscs, encompassing creatures we commonly know as sea snails and sea slugs. They are characterized by a single, often spiraled shell (though some are shell-less) and a muscular 'foot' used for locomotion. These fascinating invertebrates inhabit every marine environment, from shallow intertidal zones to the deepest ocean trenches.
Their importance extends beyond being crossword answers; they play crucial roles in marine ecosystems as herbivores, carnivores, and decomposers. From the filter-feeding periwinkles clinging to rocks to the predatory whelks and conchs, each species has adapted uniquely to its environment, making them a rich source of biological diversity and, consequently, a popular topic for crossword puzzles.
When "marine gastropod" appears as a clue, solvers often face a range of possibilities, reflecting the biological variety. Knowing common examples like WHELK, CONCH, LIMPET, and PERIWINKLE, along with their typical letter counts, is key to cracking these clues efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the blank spaces with potential answers. This is often the quickest way to narrow down options for "marine gastropod" and similar broad clues.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. If you have a 'W' for a 5-letter answer that could be 'WHELK', it strongly supports that solution.
- Think About Common Examples: Crossword constructors often lean on well-known examples of a category. For "marine gastropod," common names like 'WHELK' or 'CONCH' are usually preferred over highly obscure species.
- Look for Plurals or Specificity: Sometimes the clue might hint at a plural form or a very specific type (e.g., "edible marine gastropod"). Read the clue carefully for such nuances.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a marine gastropod?
A marine gastropod is a type of mollusc, which includes snails and slugs, that lives in saltwater environments. They typically have a spiral shell and move using a muscular 'foot'.
Why are there multiple answers for 'marine gastropod'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because different marine gastropods fit the general description. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required by the puzzle or other intersecting clues.
How can I identify the correct marine gastropod answer in a crossword?
To find the correct answer, check the number of letters in the available slot. Also, look at intersecting words – their letters will often confirm which specific gastropod fits the pattern. Consider if the clue suggests a common or more obscure species.