Austrocypraea reevei
NameAustrocypraea reevei
Scientific NameAustrocypraea reevei
Common NameReeve's Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusAustrocypraea
Speciesreevei
Geographic DistributionEndemic to Western Australia.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)20-40 mm (can reach up to 50 mm)
Identifying FeaturesGlossy, ovate shell with a characteristic cowrie shape. The reddish-brown to orange-brown dorsal coloration with subtle transverse banding and lighter, often pinkish, margins are key identifiers.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1824)
Description
A medium-sized, glossy cowrie shell, typically ovate and somewhat humped in shape. The dorsal surface is a warm reddish-brown to orange-brown, often displaying faint transverse banding or lines, as seen in the image. The margins and base are usually lighter, often pinkish or pale orange. This species is endemic to Western Australia, inhabiting subtidal rocky reefs and sandy areas.
