Mulberry Drupe
NameMulberry Drupe
Scientific NameMorula morum
Common NameMulberry Drupe
FamilyMuricidae
GenusMorula
Speciesmorum
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, Chagos, Mascarene Basin, and across to the western Pacific.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 15 to 30 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesThick, nodulose shell; prominent dark brown or black nodules on a lighter background; a distinctly purple or violet aperture with strong, often white, denticles (teeth) on both the outer and inner lips.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
A small, thick-shelled marine gastropod, characterized by its nodulose or spiny exterior and a striking purple or violet aperture. The shell is robust and somewhat globose, with a relatively low spire. The outer surface is typically whitish to grayish with prominent dark brown or black nodules, while the interior of the aperture features strong denticles or teeth.
