Common Purple Snail
NameCommon Purple Snail
Scientific NameJanthina janthina
Common NameCommon Purple Snail, Violet Snail, Purple Sea Snail
FamilyJanthinidae
GenusJanthina
Speciesjanthina
Geographic DistributionTropical and subtropical waters worldwide, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are pelagic, drifting in open ocean currents.
Shell Shapeturbinate
Average Size (mm)Typically 20-40 mm in height, though some can reach up to 50 mm.
Identifying FeaturesCharacteristic violet-purple color, globose shell with a low spire, and the unique mucus bubble raft used for flotation. They lack an operculum.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
A pelagic marine snail known for its distinctive violet-purple shell and its unique method of floating on the ocean surface using a raft of mucus bubbles. These snails are often found washed ashore after storms.
