Imperial Cone
NameImperial Cone
Scientific NameConus imperialis
Common NameImperial Cone
FamilyConidae
GenusConus
Speciesimperialis
Geographic DistributionWidespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to Polynesia, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 50 mm to 120 mm in length, with larger specimens occasionally found.
Identifying FeaturesIts most distinguishing feature is the striking color pattern of dark brown with irregular, wavy, light-colored tent-like markings. The shell is heavy and solid, with a moderately elevated spire and often a nodulose shoulder. The aperture is narrow and straight.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A medium-sized to large, heavy, and solid cone shell characterized by its distinctive color pattern. The shell is typically conical with a moderately elevated spire and a straight-sided body whorl. The surface is often smooth, though the shoulder may be nodulose. The pattern consists of a dark brown to reddish-brown background overlaid with irregular, wavy, tent-like or blotchy cream to yellowish-white markings, often forming two broad spiral bands.
