Leafy Hornmouth
NameLeafy Hornmouth
Scientific NameCeratostoma foliatum
Common NameLeafy Hornmouth
FamilyMuricidae
GenusCeratostoma
Speciesfoliatum
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska south to Baja California, Mexico. Common along the west coast of North America.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive features are the three prominent, blade-like or frilly axial varices (flanges) per whorl, which are often highly sculptured and sometimes spiny. The shell is robust and heavy, with a relatively short, recurved siphonal canal.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
The Leafy Hornmouth is a distinctive marine gastropod known for its highly sculptured shell. It is characterized by prominent, frilly, or blade-like axial varices that give it a 'leafy' appearance. The shell is robust and typically found attached to rocky substrates in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones.
