Coxen's cowrie
NameCoxen's cowrie
Scientific NameLyncina coxeni
Common NameCoxen's cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusLyncina
Speciescoxeni
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, including regions such as Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and parts of Queensland, Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 30 mm to 60 mm in length, with an average size often around 40-50 mm.
Identifying FeaturesThe distinctive pattern of irregular, often large, brown spots on a light background, combined with its elongated-ovate shape. The live animal's dark, papillose mantle, which partially covers the shell, is also a key feature. The tentacles are long and slender, and the siphon is visible.
Rarityrare
Author Citation(Cox, 1873)
Description
A species of marine gastropod mollusc, commonly known as Coxen's cowrie, belonging to the family Cypraeidae. It is characterized by its glossy, elongated-ovate shell with distinctive brown spotting on a lighter background. The live animal often extends its mantle to partially or fully cover the shell, as seen in the image.
