Contracted Buccinum
NameContracted Buccinum
Scientific NameBuccinum contractum
Common NameContracted Buccinum
FamilyBuccinidae
GenusBuccinum
Speciescontractum
Geographic DistributionMediterranean Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, including regions off Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesStrong axial ribs and spiral cords creating a sculptured surface; ovate, relatively small aperture with a short siphonal canal; thickened outer lip with prominent internal denticles.
Raritycommon
Author CitationPhilippi, 1851
Description
A small to medium-sized marine gastropod shell, characterized by its elongated, fusiform (spindle-shaped) outline and prominent sculpture. The shell exhibits strong axial ribs, particularly on the body and spire whorls, which are crossed by finer spiral cords, creating a somewhat cancellate or nodulose surface texture. The aperture is ovate and relatively small, with a short, distinct siphonal canal. The outer lip is notably thickened and features prominent denticles (teeth) on its inner margin. The columella is smooth. The shell's coloration is typically a cream to off-white background, adorned with irregular, often broken, axial streaks and blotches of brown or purplish-brown.
