
The Meta Keyhole Limpet
The Meta Keyhole Limpet, Diodora meta (Ihering, 1927), is a locally rare and elusive gastropod, also found in other parts of the Gulf of Mexico and of the western Atlantic Ocean. Its shell measures about 12 mm (0.5 inch), and has a roundish “keyhole” orifice that distinguishes the species from others in the area. Keyhole Limpets cling to hard surfaces; the orifice helps redirect water containing body wastes away from the head and gills of the animal. The Shell Museum collection has only two shel