Astralium calcar
NameAstralium calcar
Scientific NameAstralium calcar
Common NameSpurred Star Shell
FamilyTurbinidae
GenusAstralium
Speciescalcar
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and various tropical Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)30-70 mm in diameter
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include the prominent, radiating, blunt spines around the periphery, the flattened base, the low conical spire, and the highly iridescent, pearly green aperture with a thick, calcareous operculum.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A medium-sized, heavy, trochiform (top-shaped) marine gastropod shell, characterized by a flattened base and a periphery adorned with prominent, radiating, blunt spines. The spire is low to moderately elevated, and the surface often exhibits growth lines and nodulose or granular sculpture. The aperture is iridescent and pearly, often with strong green and blue hues, and a distinctive calcareous operculum is visible within.
