Blue-Rayed Limpet

Patella pellucida

What do they look like?

Less than 2cm in length, this small, oval-shelled mollusc is easily identified by the vibrant 2 – 8 dashed blue lines that almost seem to shine. These lines are not present on younger individuals, however (i.e. less than 1cm). Its shell is otherwise a brownish colour, vaguely translucent and slightly domed.

Where can I find them in Scotland?

Blue-rayed limpets are most likely to be spotted on kelp (large brown seaweeds), which inhabit the lowermost regions of the rocky shore. Due to this, they are usually only spotted during very low tides (when kelp is exposed) or whilst snorkelling. Find them on rocky shores all around the UK to depths of 27 metres, except on the southeast coast.

If searching for this species, always be mindful of the tides!

2cm
Maximum Size
1 - 2 years
Lifespan
Common
Conservation Status

Quick Fact
Adult Blue-rayed limpets often live and feed in the holdfasts of kelp (the ‘holdfast’ being the part that grips the rock and holds the kelp in place, preventing it from being washed away). Ironically, by eating little protective homes into the holdfasts, the limpets can weaken these structures and cause them to break—meaning the kelp (and the limpet's home) is washed away.

WHEN ROCKPOOLING, PLEASE BE CAREFUL TO LEAVE EVERYTHING AS YOU FOUND IT.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT HOW TO ROCKPOOL RESPONSIBLY BY WATCHING OUR BEGINNER'S GUIDE.

Header images (c) Genine Keogh, Snorkel Wild