dark-toothed cowrie
Namedark-toothed cowrie
Scientific NameErosaria cernica
Common Namedark-toothed cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Speciescernica
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, Australia (Queensland, New South Wales), and various Pacific islands.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)20-50 mm (with some specimens reaching up to 60 mm)
Identifying FeaturesThe distinctive spotted mantle, as seen in the image, is a key feature of the living animal. The shell, when visible, is characterized by its ovate shape, glossy surface, and notably dark-colored teeth along the aperture, which gives it the 'dark-toothed' common name.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Sowerby, 1870)
Description
The image shows a living dark-toothed cowrie (*Erosaria cernica*) with its mantle fully extended, largely obscuring the shell. The mantle is translucent, pale orange-brown, and densely covered with numerous small, dark brown to black spots. The animal is observed on a rocky substrate, surrounded by various marine invertebrates, including red sponges.
