Banded Dye-murex
NameBanded Dye-murex
Scientific NameHexaplex trunculus
Common NameBanded Dye-murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusHexaplex
Speciestrunculus
Geographic DistributionMediterranean Sea and the Atlantic coast of Europe and Africa, ranging from Portugal to Morocco.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)40-90 mm (can reach up to 100 mm)
Identifying FeaturesRobust, nodulose or spiny shell with prominent axial ribs and spiral cords. Short siphonal canal. The presence of a dark operculum and the characteristic purplish foot of the living animal are key features. Its historical use for purple dye is also a notable characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
The Banded Dye-murex is a robust, predatory sea snail known for its historically significant role in producing Tyrian purple dye. Its shell is typically thick, fusiform, and characterized by a rough, nodulose surface with prominent axial ribs and spiral cords. The aperture is oval, and it possesses a short siphonal canal. The living animal often displays a dark, purplish foot, visible when extended from the shell. This specimen appears to be in its natural habitat, partially covered by epibionts and algae.
