Fly-specked Cerith
NameFly-specked Cerith
Scientific NameCerithium atratum
Common NameFly-specked Cerith
FamilyCerithiidae
GenusCerithium
Speciesatratum
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, including Florida, the Caribbean Sea, and extending south to Brazil.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-50
Identifying FeaturesIts distinctive elongated, turreted shape with numerous whorls, often sculptured with axial ribs and spiral cords, and the characteristic 'fly-specked' color pattern (though not visible in the provided black and white image) are key identifiers. The aperture is small with a short, slightly recurved siphonal canal.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Born, 1778)
Description
A medium-sized, highly elongated and turreted marine gastropod shell, characterized by its numerous whorls and often rough, nodulose or ribbed surface. The common name 'Fly-specked' refers to its typical color pattern of small, dark spots or flecks on a lighter background. The shell tapers to a pointed apex.
