elephant's foot moon snail
Nameelephant's foot moon snail
Scientific NamePolinices mammilla
Common Nameelephant's foot moon snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciesmammilla
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy surface; low spire; large, D-shaped aperture; very thick, white parietal callus that often completely covers the umbilicus, giving it a characteristic 'elephant's foot' appearance.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
A medium-sized, globose, and smooth marine gastropod shell, characterized by its uniform light orange to creamy brown exterior and a prominent, thick white callus that partially or fully covers the umbilicus. It belongs to the moon snail family, known for their predatory habits.
