Arctic moonsnail
NameArctic moonsnail
Scientific NameEuspira groenlandica
Common NameArctic moonsnail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusEuspira
Speciesgroenlandica
Geographic DistributionCircum-Arctic and subarctic regions, including the North Atlantic (e.g., Greenland, Iceland, Norway, eastern Canada, New England) and North Pacific oceans.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth shell; low spire; large, D-shaped aperture; often a prominent callus on the columella partially or fully covering the umbilicus (though not clearly visible in this specific view). The overall smooth, rounded appearance is characteristic of moonsnails.
Dietcarnivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Møller, 1842)
Description
The Arctic moonsnail is a marine gastropod characterized by its globose, smooth, and relatively thick shell. The shell typically exhibits a low spire and a very large, inflated body whorl. The aperture is D-shaped, and the columellar area often features a callus that may partially or fully cover the umbilicus. The shell's surface is generally smooth, with faint growth lines. Its coloration ranges from light tan to reddish-brown, often with lighter bands or patches, particularly on the body whorl and near the suture. The interior of the aperture is usually lighter, often white or cream.
