Nucella lapillus is highly variable when it comes to their morphology and shell color and patterns. Those snails that live in a wave exposed area tend to have a larger foot, which helps them grip the rock surface and prevent being dislodged. A more obvious variation is the color and patterns of the shells. Here in Maine, dogwhelks are found with a wide range of solid and striped colors. Snails with white shells are commonly found in protected habitats, while darker colors are found in wave-exposed habitats. Can you think of reasons why these colors are distributed in this manner?