Flinders' rock-shell
NameFlinders' rock-shell
Scientific NameDicathais flindersi
Common NameFlinders' rock-shell
FamilyMuricidae
GenusDicathais
Speciesflindersi
Geographic DistributionEndemic to southern Australia, found along the coasts of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesStrong, nodulose sculpture formed by intersecting spiral cords and axial ribs; ovate aperture; short siphonal canal; robust and thick shell structure. The overall rough and knobby appearance is characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Adams & Angas, 1864)
Description
The Flinders' rock-shell, *Dicathais flindersi*, is a predatory marine gastropod belonging to the Muricidae family. It is characterized by its robust, turbinate to ovate-conical shell with a moderately high spire. The shell surface is heavily sculptured with prominent spiral cords and axial ribs, often forming nodules where they intersect, giving it a rough texture. Its coloration is typically light, ranging from whitish to cream, grey, or brownish, sometimes with subtle darker banding or mottling. This species is a common inhabitant of rocky intertidal and shallow subtidal zones in southern Australia.
