Neothais smithi
NameNeothais smithi
Scientific NameNeothais smithi
Common NameSmith's Rock Snail
FamilyMuricidae
GenusNeothais
Speciessmithi
Geographic DistributionWestern Pacific, including coastal regions of Australia (Queensland, New South Wales) and New Caledonia. It is typically found in tropical and subtropical waters.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)15-30
Identifying FeaturesKey features include strong, rounded axial ribs (often 7-9 per whorl) that are frequently nodulose, especially on the shoulder. Spiral cords are also present, intersecting the axial ribs to create a textured surface. The outer lip of the ovate aperture is often crenulated or denticulate internally. The siphonal canal is short and open.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Brazier, 1894)
Description
A small to medium-sized predatory marine snail, characterized by its solid, ovate-conical shell with prominent axial ribs and nodulose sculpture. It is commonly found on rocky intertidal and shallow subtidal zones in the Western Pacific.
