Depressed Cowrie
NameDepressed Cowrie
Scientific NameMauritia depressa
Common NameDepressed Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusMauritia
Speciesdepressa
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Caledonia, Fiji, Hawaii, and other Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesIts relatively flattened dorsal profile, the dark brown dorsum with dense white spotting, and the often pale base with dark blotches are key identifiers. The living animal's mantle is usually greyish and can extend to cover much of the shell.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1824)
Description
A living specimen of the Depressed Cowrie, *Mauritia depressa*, shown partially covered by its mantle on a rocky, algal-covered substrate. The shell exhibits its characteristic glossy, ovate shape and distinctive spotted pattern.
