Guaymas Cone
NameGuaymas Cone
Scientific NameConasprella guaymasensis
Common NameGuaymas Cone Snail
FamilyConidae
GenusConasprella
Speciesguaymasensis
Geographic DistributionEndemic to the Guaymas Basin in the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), Mexico. Specifically found in association with hydrothermal vents and cold seeps.
Habitatdeep-sea
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-50
Identifying FeaturesIts distinctive conical shape, smooth and glossy shell, uniform orange color, and its unique deep-sea hydrothermal vent habitat in the Guaymas Basin are key identifying features. The low spire and narrow aperture are also characteristic.
Dietcarnivore
Rarityrare
Author Citation(Petuch, 1991)
Description
A medium-sized, conical marine gastropod, known for its smooth, glossy shell and vibrant orange coloration. It is a deep-sea species, uniquely adapted to the extreme environments of hydrothermal vents. The image shows the shell resting on a dark, sediment-covered substrate, typical of its deep-sea habitat, alongside another smaller, dark gastropod shell.
