Nanus Cone
NameNanus Cone
Scientific NameConus nanus
Common NameNanus Cone
FamilyConidae
GenusConus
Speciesnanus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and parts of Australia.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-40
Identifying FeaturesIts relatively small size, broad conical shape, low spire, and often encrusted appearance are key. The visible siphon and foot are characteristic of living cone snails. The operculum is small.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby I, 1833
Description
The Nanus Cone is a small to medium-sized predatory sea snail, characterized by its broadly conical shell and low spire. The specimen in the image appears to be partially buried in sandy substrate, a common behavior for cone snails. Its shell is heavily encrusted with algae and other marine growth, giving it a pale greenish-white appearance. The snail's siphon and part of its foot are visible, indicating it is actively moving or feeding. This species is known for its venomous harpoon used to immobilize prey.
