Tweezer Flatshell Helix

Tweezer Flatshell Helix
Creator	OviraptorFan
Information
Status	Extant
Common Name(s)	Tweezer Flatshell Helix
Zones	19
Roles	Base-Consumer, Scavenger
Classification
Genus	Potamihelix
Species	Potamihelix solumpastor
Evolution
Date	February 21st, 2021
Ancestor	Potamihelix epipedikochyli
Descendants	No results

Competition over plort seeds intensified in zone 19 with the diversification of the local helids. A population of Potamihelix epipedikochyli avoided competition by shifting towards scavenging, which brought about adaptations that resulted in Potamihelix solumpastor.
6.6-13.5 cm wide
Originated in Zone 19

The Tweezer Flatshell Helix (Potamihelix solumpastor) have retained their ancestors’ flat, hydrodynamic shell, 4 clawed tentacles that they use to crawl, and 4 chemoreceptive tentacles. 2 of their clawed tentacles have become more muscular and broaden to increase surface area, helping them manipulate carrion matter, at the cost of losing mobility on the substrate. Similar adaptations have occurred in 2 of the sensory tentacles for the same purpose.

Their claws help them tear the body into smaller pieces while the 2 ancestral grinding surfaces have adapted to masticating the flesh, spines, and shells of dead helids. The shells also act as a source of calcium for their own shells.

Like their relatives, the Tweezer Flatshell Helix are capable of both sexual and asexual reproduction. Fertilization is external, with released sperm fertilizing their own eggs and those of others. 1-2 dozen fertilized eggs are stored in their shells near the opening.