Boivin's cowrie
NameBoivin's cowrie
Scientific NameStaphylaea boivinii
Common NameBoivin's cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusStaphylaea
Speciesboivinii
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including East Africa, Madagascar, the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Western Pacific, and parts of Australia.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)25
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive feature is the highly papillose, often greenish-brown mantle that usually extends to completely cover the shell, providing excellent camouflage. The shell itself is ovate, with a granular surface and small dark spots, visible when the mantle is retracted.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Kiener, 1843)
Description
Boivin's cowrie (*Staphylaea boivinii*) is a species of marine gastropod mollusc belonging to the family Cypraeidae. It is known for its ovate, granular shell, which is often completely covered by a highly papillose, camouflaging mantle. This species is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region.
