Compton's cowrie
NameCompton's cowrie
Scientific NameNotadusta comptoni
Common NameCompton's cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusNotadusta
Speciescomptoni
Geographic DistributionSouthern Australia, including Tasmania.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)20-45
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its relatively small size, ovate and glossy shell, pale orange/peach coloration with subtle transverse banding, and most notably, the prominent dark spots along the lateral margins. The mantle of the living animal is often translucent and can partially cover the shell.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1847)
Description
A small to medium-sized marine gastropod, commonly known as Compton's cowrie. It possesses a smooth, highly glossy, and ovate shell. The dorsal surface is typically a pale orange to peach color, often adorned with faint, darker transverse bands. A distinctive feature is the row of prominent dark reddish-brown spots along the lateral margins. The living animal is shown with its mantle partially retracted, revealing the shell and its orange foot, resting on a rocky substrate next to what appears to be a sea cucumber or similar echinoderm.
