Little Ass Cowry
NameLittle Ass Cowry
Scientific NameErosaria asellus
Common NameLittle Ass Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Speciesasellus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas from East Africa to the central Pacific, north to Japan, and south to Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 15 to 30 mm in length, with some specimens reaching up to 35 mm.
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive feature is the pattern of three broad, transverse white bands on a dark brown to black dorsal surface. Like other cowries, it has a smooth, highly polished, ovate shell with a narrow, toothed aperture. The animal's mantle is often dark and can be seen partially covering the shell.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A small, ovate cowry shell, *Erosaria asellus*, commonly known as the Little Ass Cowry, is depicted in its natural marine habitat, likely on a coral reef. The shell exhibits a striking pattern of three broad, transverse white bands against a dark brown to black dorsum. The base of the shell is white, and the animal's dark mantle is partially extended, covering parts of the shell, blending with the surrounding environment.
