Honey Cowry
NameHoney Cowry
Scientific NameErosaria helvola
Common NameHoney Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Specieshelvola
Geographic DistributionWidespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific Ocean.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)15-40
Identifying FeaturesThe combination of the dark, densely white-spotted dorsum, the bright orange or honey-yellow margins, and the finely toothed white base are key identifying features. The spots on the dorsum are often somewhat irregular in size and distribution.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A small to medium-sized, highly polished cowry shell, characterized by its ovate and humped shape. The dorsal surface is typically dark reddish-brown to chocolate brown, densely covered with numerous small, irregular white or pale yellowish spots. The margins are often a distinctive bright orange or honey-yellow, contrasting with the darker dorsum. The base is white or cream, featuring fine, prominent teeth that extend onto the columellar side.
