Angular Unicorn
NameAngular Unicorn
Scientific NameAcanthina spirata
Common NameAngular Unicorn
FamilyMuricidae
GenusAcanthina
Speciesspirata
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from British Columbia, Canada, south to Baja California, Mexico.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include the angular shoulder on the body whorl, the strong dark axial bars, and the presence of a single, prominent tooth or spine on the outer lip of the aperture (the 'unicorn' feature). The living animal often displays blue-tipped tentacles, as seen in the image.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Blainville, 1832)
Description
A living specimen of the Angular Unicorn snail, *Acanthina spirata*, observed in a shallow tide pool or rocky intertidal zone. The shell is characterized by its conical shape, prominent angular shoulder, and distinctive color pattern of dark axial bars on a lighter background. The snail's body is visible, including its blue-tipped tentacles.
