butterfly conch
Namebutterfly conch
Scientific NameConomurex decorus
Common Namebutterfly conch
FamilyStrombidae
GenusConomurex
Speciesdecorus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)30-70
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its conical shell shape, moderately pointed spire, the distinctive dark aperture with prominent white spots or lirae on the inner lip, and the presence of stalked eyes. The shell's surface sculpture is variable, ranging from smooth to nodulose, and it possesses a characteristic stromboid notch on the outer lip (though not clearly visible in this image).
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Röding, 1798)
Description
The image displays two live specimens of butterfly conch (*Conomurex decorus*) on a sandy seabed with scattered rubble. One shell is partially open, revealing a dark, almost black aperture with distinct white spots along the inner lip. Its exterior is predominantly white with striking irregular patterns of reddish-brown or orange streaks and blotches, and a moderately pointed spire. The other shell is closed and appears heavily encrusted with marine growth, giving it a rough, nodulose, and mottled greyish-white appearance, effectively camouflaging it against the substrate. Both shells exhibit characteristic stalked eyes protruding from the anterior end, indicating they are active, living gastropods.
