Cart-Rut Shell
NameCart-Rut Shell
Scientific NameVasum turbinellus
Common NameCart-Rut Shell, Pagoda Shell, Top Vase
FamilyTurbinellidae
GenusVasum
Speciesturbinellus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including East Africa, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Western Pacific, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)50-120
Identifying FeaturesHeavy, thick shell with prominent, rounded axial ribs (typically 7-9 per whorl) that give it a 'cart-rut' pattern. The shell has a turbinate shape, a short siphonal canal, and strong columellar folds (internal feature).
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
A heavy, thick-shelled marine gastropod, characterized by its turbinate to broadly fusiform shape and prominent, rounded axial ribs that create a distinctive 'cart-rut' or corrugated appearance. The shell is typically off-white to cream, often with brownish or grayish tones in the grooves between the ribs.
