Size

Shell Length: 6-24cm (2.5-9.5")

Recognition Characters

Spindle-shaped. Whorls are smooth except for a low, broad, raised, slightly knobby spiral ridge below suture. Aperture is ovate, notched, and pointed above. Outer lip is smooth. Canal at base of aperture is moderately long, slightly twisted, broad and open.

Color

Shell is multi-colored. Differing shades of brown, gray, white, and tan. Usually with many fine reddish-brown lines and brown to orange axial splotches.

Habitat & Depth

Sandy, muddy, and rocky substrates. Intertidally to 25m depth.

Distribution at GRNMS

Occasional.

Geographic Range

North Carolina south to Florida. Gulf of Mexico to Texas. West Indies

Behavior & Notes

Preys on other snails especially the Florida Banded Tulip, the Pear Whelk, and young Queen Conchs.

Synonyms

References

Rehder 1981