Astralium asteriscus
NameAstralium asteriscus
Scientific NameAstralium asteriscus
Common NameStarry Astraea, Star Turban
FamilyTurbinidae
GenusAstralium
Speciesasteriscus
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and off the coast of Florida.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeturbinate
Average Size (mm)30-50
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive features are its heavy, calcareous operculum (often blue or white), the nacreous interior of the aperture, and the generally trochiform shape with a potentially spiny or nodulose periphery. The rough, often encrusted exterior is also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Reeve, 1842)
Description
A marine gastropod, commonly known as the Starry Astraea or Star Turban. Its shell is typically trochiform (conical with a flat base) to turbinate, often characterized by a stellate (star-like) periphery due to prominent spines or nodules, though these can be worn down. The exterior is usually dull and rough, often encrusted with algae, while the interior of the aperture is iridescent and pearly. A distinctive feature is its thick, calcareous operculum, which can be white, yellowish, or, as seen in the image, a striking blue.
