Cypraeovula coronata
NameCypraeovula coronata
Scientific NameCypraeovula coronata
Common NameCrown Cowrie, Coronate Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusCypraeovula
Speciescoronata
Geographic DistributionEndemic to South Africa, specifically along the coast of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)20-40
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its ovate, humped shell shape, the finely granular dorsal surface (visible when the mantle is retracted), and the characteristic dark transverse bands on the ventral base. The granular texture of the partially extended mantle is also a distinguishing characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSchilder & Schilder, 1971
Description
Cypraeovula coronata is a species of medium-sized sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Cypraeidae, the cowries. The shell is ovate and humped, with a smooth, glossy ventral surface and a finely granular or pustulose dorsal surface, which is partially visible in the image as the mantle is retracted. The animal's mantle, when extended, is granular and typically covers much of the shell. This species is endemic to the temperate waters of South Africa.
