golden-mouth cowrie
Namegolden-mouth cowrie
Scientific NameLyncina aurantium
Common Namegolden-mouth cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusLyncina
Speciesaurantium
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, particularly the western Pacific Ocean, including areas like the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and parts of Australia.
Average Size (mm)70-100 mm (2.8-3.9 inches), with some specimens reaching up to 120 mm (4.7 inches).
Identifying FeaturesIts large size, highly polished shell, and the distinctive golden-orange color of its aperture are key identifying features. The reddish-brown dorsal surface with white spots and the presence of a papillate mantle in the live animal also help in identification.
Raritycommon
Author CitationGmelin, 1791
Description
The golden-mouth cowrie, *Lyncina aurantium*, is a large and highly prized species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Cypraeidae, the cowries. It is known for its beautiful, polished shell and distinctive golden-orange aperture. The live animal, as seen in the image, often extends its mantle over the shell, which can be translucent and covered with papillae.
