Fuzzy Nautilus
NameFuzzy Nautilus
Scientific NameAllonautilus scrobiculatus
Common NameFuzzy Nautilus
FamilyNautilidae
GenusAllonautilus
Speciesscrobiculatus
Geographic DistributionWestern Pacific Ocean, primarily around Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)160
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinguishing feature is the thick, fuzzy, hairy, or scrobiculate periostracum (outermost shell layer) that covers the entire shell, giving it a rough, textured appearance. It also possesses a large, open umbilicus and a prominent, textured hood covering the aperture when the animal retracts.
Rarityrare
Author Citation(Lightfoot, 1786)
Description
The Fuzzy Nautilus is a unique cephalopod characterized by its distinctive, heavily ridged and hairy shell. The image shows the living animal partially extended from its coiled, chambered shell, swimming in deep blue water. Its shell is predominantly yellowish-orange with some darker brown markings, and the 'fuzziness' or scrobiculate texture of the periostracum is clearly visible, especially on the dorsal surface. The animal's head, with its numerous tentacles and prominent hood, is visible at the aperture.
