Naticarius zonalis
NameNaticarius zonalis
Scientific NameNaticarius zonalis
Common NameZoned Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusNaticarius
Specieszonalis
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and the Western Pacific.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 20 mm to 40 mm in height, though some specimens may be larger.
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth shell; low spire; often possesses faint spiral banding on the shell (though variable); a prominent, large, and brightly colored foot that can partially envelop the shell; and a characteristic operculum (not visible in this image).
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Récluz, 1850)
Description
A living specimen of Naticarius zonalis, commonly known as the Zoned Moon Snail, is depicted partially extended on a sandy-muddy substrate. The shell is globose, smooth, and exhibits a uniform brownish-orange coloration. A large, fleshy, and brightly colored orange-red foot of the animal is visible, extending from the aperture and partially enveloping the shell, characteristic of moon snails.
