Melon Shell
NameMelon Shell
Scientific NameOliva miniacea
Common NameMelon Shell
FamilyOlividae
GenusOliva
Speciesminiacea
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)50
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, highly polished, elongated-ovate shell with a very low spire. Distinctive orange-brown color with irregular lighter axial patterns. Long, narrow aperture. The visible animal shows a large, dark foot and a siphon.
Raritycommon
Author CitationRöding, 1798
Description
A medium to large-sized, glossy marine gastropod shell, characterized by its elongated-ovate shape and very low spire. The shell surface is smooth and highly polished. It typically exhibits a warm orange-brown to reddish-brown base color, often adorned with irregular white, cream, or yellowish axial bands or blotches. The aperture is long and narrow, extending almost the full length of the shell. The animal, partially visible in the image, has a large foot and siphon, typical of a burrowing predator.
