Olivella tergina is a species of small sea snail, marine gastropod mollusk in the subfamily Olivellinae, in the family Olividae, the olives. Species in the genus Olivella are commonly called dwarf olives.
The shell of Olivella tergina is typically small, reaching about 11-16 mm in length. It is smooth, cylindrical, and often glossy, with a narrow aperture. The coloration of O. tergina shells varies but often includes a combination of tan, brown, and occasionally purplish hues, with potential patterns or streaks.[1]
The body of the snail itself is soft and extends into a long foot, which it uses to move and bury itself within the sand. Olivella species have a siphon, which they extend to the surface while buried, allowing them to respire and detect prey.[2]
This marine species occurs off Mexico to Panama and Peru -
West coast of The Americas.