Calf Cowry
NameCalf Cowry
Scientific NameLyncina vitellus
Common NameCalf Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusLyncina
Speciesvitellus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including East Africa, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Western Pacific Ocean.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)50-100
Identifying FeaturesThe distinctive reddish-brown shell with white spots, combined with the characteristic dark, papillose mantle with branched projections that often obscure the shell in living specimens. The shell's aperture is narrow with fine teeth.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
The Calf Cowry is a medium to large-sized marine gastropod, characterized by its highly polished, ovate shell. In living specimens, the shell is often partially or fully covered by the animal's mantle, which is typically dark, papillose, and adorned with numerous branched, often lighter-colored projections. The shell itself is a striking reddish-brown to chestnut color, patterned with numerous round white spots of varying sizes. This species is a common inhabitant of tropical Indo-Pacific waters.
