Cribrarula gaspardi
NameCribrarula gaspardi
Scientific NameCribrarula gaspardi
Common NameGaspard's Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusCribrarula
Speciesgaspardi
Geographic DistributionWestern Indian Ocean, including regions around Madagascar, Reunion, and Mauritius.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)15-30
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying feature is the unique pattern of ocellated (ring-like) brown spots on a white dorsal surface. It has a glossy finish, finely toothed aperture, and a typical cowrie shape.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLorenz, 2002
Description
A small to medium-sized cowrie shell, characterized by its glossy, ovate to sub-cylindrical form. The dorsal surface is convex and adorned with a distinctive pattern of light brown to yellowish-orange ocellated (eye-like) spots or rings on a creamy white background. The base and margins are typically white. The aperture is narrow and features fine, distinct teeth on both the outer and inner lips.
