Cribrarula melwardi
NameCribrarula melwardi
Scientific NameCribrarula melwardi
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusCribrarula
Speciesmelwardi
Geographic DistributionEndemic to Queensland, Australia, particularly associated with the Great Barrier Reef. The specimens in the image are noted as being from Wilson Island, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef.
Average Size (mm)22.8
Identifying FeaturesGlossy, ovate shell with a distinctive pattern of brown spots or blotches on a lighter background. The aperture is narrow, with fine teeth on both the inner and outer lips. The overall shape and pattern are characteristic of the genus Cribrarula.
Rarityrare
Author Citation(Iredale, 1931)
Description
Cribrarula melwardi is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Cypraeidae, the cowries. The shells are typically ovate, glossy, and feature distinctive color patterns. The specimens shown in the image exhibit a white to cream base color with irregular brown or reddish-brown spots and blotches, characteristic of the species. One specimen appears entirely white, possibly representing a variation or a different growth stage.
