Blanford's Whelk
NameBlanford's Whelk
Scientific NameCronia blanfordi
Common NameBlanford's Whelk
FamilyMuricidae
GenusCronia
Speciesblanfordi
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas of the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 15 to 30 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesRobust, sculptured shell with prominent spiral cords and axial ribs, a short siphonal canal, and a denticulate outer lip. Often found in dense aggregations on rocky shores. The presence of white, finger-like egg capsules is also a strong indicator.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Melvill, 1893)
Description
A small, robust marine gastropod, characterized by its conical to ovate-conical shell. The shell surface is typically sculptured with prominent spiral ridges and axial ribs, giving it a textured appearance. Coloration ranges from dark grey to brownish-grey, often with subtle lighter mottling or banding. These whelks are commonly found clustered on rocky substrates in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, often alongside their distinctive white, finger-like egg capsules, as seen in the image.
