Euspira macilenta
NameEuspira macilenta
Scientific NameEuspira macilenta
Common NameMacilent Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusEuspira
Speciesmacilenta
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of the Western Pacific.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)20-40 mm in height
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth shell with a low spire; distinctive reddish-brown axial patterns on a white background; a very large, fleshy, translucent foot that can almost completely envelop the shell when extended; characteristic predatory drilling behavior on other mollusks.
Dietcarnivore
Raritycommon
Author CitationPhilippi, 1844
Description
The image displays two live individuals of Euspira macilenta, commonly known as a moon snail, partially submerged in a sandy marine substrate. Both snails exhibit their characteristic large, pale, and somewhat translucent foot, which is extended for locomotion and burrowing. Their shells are globose with a low spire, featuring a distinctive pattern of white or cream background overlaid with irregular, reddish-brown to purplish-brown axial bands and blotches. One snail is more exposed, showcasing its shell and a significant portion of its foot, while the other is mostly buried, with only part of its shell visible. The surrounding environment is a coarse-grained sandy seabed, typical of their habitat.
