Mammilla melanostomoides
NameMammilla melanostomoides
Scientific NameMammilla melanostomoides
Common NameMelanostomoides Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusMammilla
Speciesmelanostomoides
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy, globose-ovate shell with a low spire. White to pale cream background with reddish-brown spots. Umbilicus completely covered by a callus. D-shaped aperture.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Quoy & Gaimard, 1832)
Description
The shell of Mammilla melanostomoides is a medium-sized, globose to ovate marine gastropod, characterized by its smooth, glossy surface. The shell is typically white or pale cream, adorned with scattered, irregular reddish-brown spots or blotches, as seen in the image. It features a low spire and a D-shaped aperture. A distinguishing characteristic is the umbilicus, which is completely covered by a thick, white or pale callus. This species is a predatory moon snail, found burrowing in sandy or muddy substrates in the Indo-Pacific region.
