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Tropical coral reef organisms are predicted to be especially sensitive to ocean warming because many already live close to their upper thermal limit. In addition, it has been suggested that the probable rise in ocean carbon dioxide will put additional burden on their ability to cope with climate change.
Little, however, is known about the thermal sensitivity of a diverse and abundant group of reef animals: the gastropod mollusks. Some marine gastropod conches are known for their one-footed jumping ability. These conchs are equipped with a modified foot with a toe-nail like operculum (the plate that normally serves to close the opening of a gastropod shell when the animal is retracted). This foot allows them to leap backwards rapidly when faced with a predator.Image credit: Sjannie Lefevre
