Litozamia rudolphi
NameLitozamia rudolphi
Scientific NameLitozamia rudolphi
Common NameRudolph's Murex (informal, based on species name)
FamilyMuricidae
GenusLitozamia
Speciesrudolphi
Geographic DistributionAustralia (New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania) and New Zealand.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)5-15
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, fusiform shape, prominent axial ribs crossed by spiral cords, short siphonal canal, and characteristic reddish-brown markings on a pale background. The overall sculptured appearance is distinctive for the genus.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Brazier, 1893)
Description
A small, fusiform (spindle-shaped) marine gastropod shell, predominantly pale cream to light tan in color, adorned with irregular reddish-brown blotches or axial bands. The shell exhibits prominent axial ribs and finer spiral cords, giving it a sculptured texture. It has a moderately high spire and an ovate aperture that tapers into a short siphonal canal. The specimen is shown resting on a dark, wet, rocky substrate, indicative of its natural habitat.
