Bairstow's Cone
NameBairstow's Cone
Scientific NameConus bairstowi
Common NameBairstow's Cone
FamilyConidae
GenusConus
Speciesbairstowi
Geographic DistributionEndemic to South Africa, specifically found along the Agulhas Bank, from False Bay to Port Alfred.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its conical shape, moderately elevated spire, and the distinctive pattern of rectangular brown blocks or blotches on a white background. The aperture is long and narrow, typical of cone shells.
Dietcarnivore
Author CitationSowerby III, 1889
Description
Bairstow's Cone is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Conidae. Its shell is characterized by a conical shape, a moderately elevated spire, and a distinctive pattern of rectangular brown markings on a white or cream background. These markings are typically arranged in spiral rows, often forming two broad bands across the body whorl. The aperture is narrow and extends the length of the shell.
