Babelomurex cariniferus
NameBabelomurex cariniferus
Scientific NameBabelomurex cariniferus
Common NameCarinate Babelmurex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusBabelomurex
Speciescariniferus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, including regions such as Japan, the Philippines, and other Western Pacific localities.
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)32
Identifying FeaturesHigh spire, prominent carinate (keeled) shoulder often with spines/nodules, strong axial and spiral sculpture, deep siphonal canal, and characteristic reddish markings on a pale background.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Sowerby, 1879)
Description
Babelomurex cariniferus is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae. Its shell is characterized by a turbinate to fusiform shape with a high, pointed spire and a large body whorl. A prominent, sharply keeled (carinate) shoulder on each whorl, often adorned with short, blunt spines or nodules, is a key identifying feature. The shell surface exhibits strong axial ribs and finer spiral cords, creating a sculptured appearance. The aperture is ovate, leading to a distinct, moderately long siphonal canal. The coloration is typically off-white to cream or pale yellowish-white, often with irregular reddish-pinkish blotches or streaks, particularly on the spire and around the apex.
