Naticarius caneloensis
NameNaticarius caneloensis
Scientific NameNaticarius caneloensis
Common NameMoon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusNaticarius
Speciescaneloensis
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, specifically off the coast of Chile (e.g., Valparaíso region).
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth shell with a low spire and a large body whorl. Characteristic spotted pattern. The living animal has a very large, extensible foot. Like other Naticidae, it possesses an umbilical callus, though not clearly visible in this image.
Author Citation(Marincovich, 1975)
Description
Naticarius caneloensis is a species of predatory marine gastropod mollusc belonging to the family Naticidae, commonly known as moon snails. Its shell is typically globose and smooth, featuring a low spire and a large body whorl. The coloration is generally a light tan or cream background, adorned with distinct darker brown spots or bands arranged in spiral rows. As a moon snail, it is known for its predatory behavior, drilling characteristic holes into the shells of other molluscs to consume their soft tissues. The living animal possesses a large, muscular foot used for burrowing and locomotion on sandy or muddy substrates.
