Home > Invertebrates > Shells > Limpets > Cellana sandwicensis

Updated 4/21/2026

Family Nacellidae

HAWAII - ENDEMIC

Cellana sandwicensis  

Kaunolu Bay, Lana'i

 

Kaupo, Oahu

Kaupo, Oahu

 

Portlock, Oahu

Ahihi-Kinau NAR, Maui

 


Bellows, Oahu


Juvenile, Bellows, Oahu
   

HAWAIIAN LIMPET    'OPIHI 'ALINALINA

Common on wave-washed coralline algae in the lower intertidal zone.  The shell has  coarse ribs that extend well beyond the shell margin, and interspces contain smaller, shorter ribs.  The interior scar varies from white to dark gray.  The yellow foot is most prized for consumption.  Attains 1.9 inches, 47 mm.  Endemic to Hawaii.  Cellana melanostoma is a synonym for the tall-spired form in the NWHI.