Drake's Moon Snail
NameDrake's Moon Snail
Scientific NamePolinices draconis
Common NameDrake's Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciesdraconis
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, primarily found along the coast from Southern California (USA) down to Baja California (Mexico).
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)Typically reaches a height of 70-80 mm (approximately 2.75 to 3.15 inches), though larger specimens can occur.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its globose shape, smooth and thick shell, large umbilical callus (though not clearly visible in this fragment), and most notably, the prominent reddish-brown axial banding on a lighter background. The large, D-shaped aperture is also characteristic.
Dietcarnivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Dall, 1903)
Description
A fragment of a marine gastropod shell, identified as Drake's Moon Snail. The visible portion displays a globose form with a large, open aperture. Its most striking feature is the pattern of prominent reddish-brown to orange-brown axial stripes or flammules on a lighter cream or tan background. The shell surface appears smooth and thick, typical of moon snails, and the fragment suggests a robust structure.
