Gracilipurpura craticulata
NameGracilipurpura craticulata
Scientific NameGracilipurpura craticulata
Common NameNone established
FamilyMuricidae
GenusGracilipurpura
Speciescraticulata
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, including regions such as Japan, the Philippines, and Queensland (Australia), and New Caledonia.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive cancellate sculpture (axial ribs crossed by spiral cords), fusiform shape, relatively small size, and characteristic reddish-brown markings on a light background. The siphonal canal is moderately long.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(E.A. Smith, 1891)
Description
Gracilipurpura craticulata is a small, predatory marine snail belonging to the murex family. Its shell is characterized by a fusiform shape with a prominent spire and a moderately long siphonal canal. The surface exhibits a distinctive cancellate sculpture, formed by strong axial ribs intersected by spiral cords. The coloration typically ranges from whitish to cream, often adorned with reddish-brown or purplish-brown axial bands or blotches, particularly noticeable on the ribs. The aperture is usually white, sometimes with a reddish or purplish hue deep within. This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting subtidal sandy or muddy bottoms.
