Conical Moon Snail
NameConical Moon Snail
Scientific NamePolinices conicus
Common NameConical Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciesconicus
Geographic DistributionEndemic to southern Australia, ranging from Western Australia to New South Wales, including Tasmania.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)40
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth, and thick shell with a low spire and a very large body whorl. The characteristic broad, reddish-brown spiral band on the body whorl is a key feature, though its intensity can vary. Often found partially buried in sandy seafloors.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lamarck, 1822)
Description
The Conical Moon Snail, *Polinices conicus*, is a medium-sized marine gastropod known for its distinctive globose and smooth shell. It features a low spire and a very large body whorl, giving it a somewhat flattened, rounded appearance. The shell is typically pale cream to fawn, often adorned with a broad, reddish-brown spiral band on the upper part of the body whorl, which can vary in intensity. These snails are predatory, inhabiting sandy substrates where they hunt other molluscs by drilling into their shells.
