Fringed Cowry
NameFringed Cowry
Scientific NameErronea fimbriata
Common NameFringed Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErronea
Speciesfimbriata
Geographic DistributionWidespread in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa across to the central Pacific Ocean.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)15-35 mm
Identifying FeaturesGlossy, ovate shell with fine yellowish-brown spotting on a pale background; characteristic purplish-pink coloration at the shell's ends; narrow, toothed aperture.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
A small to medium-sized, glossy cowry shell, typically ovate to sub-cylindrical in shape. The dorsal surface is pale cream to whitish, covered with numerous fine, yellowish-brown spots and often some larger, diffuse brownish blotches. The base is white, and the narrow aperture is lined with prominent white teeth. A key identifying feature is the distinctive purplish-pink coloration at the anterior and posterior terminals of the shell.
