Maldive cone
NameMaldive cone
Scientific NameConus maldivus
Common NameMaldive cone
FamilyConidae
GenusConus
Speciesmaldivus
Geographic DistributionWidespread in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Maldives, East Africa, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)40-80
Identifying FeaturesThe distinctive pattern of dark brown with irregular white markings and two broken white spiral bands. Its conical shape and relatively low spire are also key. The shoulder is typically broad and slightly angled.
Raritycommon
Author CitationHwass in Bruguière, 1792
Description
The Maldive cone (*Conus maldivus*) is a medium-sized, heavy, conical seashell characterized by its striking color pattern. The shell is typically dark brown or chestnut, adorned with irregular white blotches and axial streaks. Two distinct, though often broken, white spiral bands encircle the shell, one at the shoulder and another around the mid-body. It possesses a broad shoulder and a moderately low, pointed spire. The aperture is long and narrow, with a white interior. This predatory snail is found in the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting sandy or rubble bottoms in shallow to moderate depths, where it preys on marine worms.
