Lamarck's cowrie
NameLamarck's cowrie
Scientific NameErosaria lamarckii
Common NameLamarck's cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Specieslamarckii
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, primarily in the Indian Ocean, including areas such as Madagascar, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and parts of Indonesia.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)25-60 mm
Identifying FeaturesIts characteristic ovate, glossy form, the distinctive pattern of small white spots on a pale background, and the reddish-brown teeth along the aperture are key identifying features.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1825)
Description
A medium-sized, highly glossy cowrie shell, characterized by its ovate and somewhat humped dorsal shape. The shell's surface is smooth and polished, displaying a distinctive pattern of numerous small, irregular white spots against a pale yellowish-tan or cream background. The ventral side features a long, narrow aperture lined with prominent, often reddish-brown teeth.
