Size

Shell Length: 4-10cm (1.5-4")

Recognition Characters

Ovate with a broadly conical spire. Spire whorls have numerous spiral cords crossed by axial ribs. Spiral cord on periphery is the strongest, knobby at ribs. Aperture is ovate with outer lip that has fine, grooved ridges. Canal is broad and short.

Color

Exterior grayish, brownish, or yellowish with fine reddish-brown spots and short lines. Interior of aperture variable. Yellow, orange, or purplish.

Habitat & Depth

Rocks and oyster reefs. Intertidally to 25m depth.

Distribution at GRNMS

Occasional. Found in rocks or the underside of ledges.

Geographic Range

North Carolina south to Florida and Caribbean

Behavior & Notes

Synonyms

Stromanita haemastoma floridana

References

Ruppert and Fox 1988, Abbot 2001