Cypraeovula mikeharti
NameCypraeovula mikeharti
Scientific NameCypraeovula mikeharti
Common NameMike Hart's Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusCypraeovula
Speciesmikeharti
Geographic DistributionEndemic to South Africa, specifically found off the coast of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, particularly on the Agulhas Bank.
Average Size (mm)18-30
Identifying FeaturesGlossy, ovate shell with a distinctive spotted pattern on a pale background, and a narrow, toothed aperture. The specific pattern and geographic location are key identifiers.
Dietcarnivore
Raritycommon
Author CitationLorenz & M. Hart, 1997
Description
A small to medium-sized, ovate, and highly polished cowrie shell. The dorsal surface is typically white to pale cream, adorned with irregular, scattered, dark reddish-brown to orange-brown spots. The margins often display a band of similar spots. The base is flattened, and the aperture is narrow, extending almost the full length of the shell, with well-developed white teeth on both the inner and outer lips.
