New Zealand Moonsnail
NameNew Zealand Moonsnail
Scientific NameConuber conicum
Common NameNew Zealand Moonsnail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusConuber
Speciesconicum
Geographic DistributionCoastal waters of New Zealand and parts of Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)25-40 mm
Identifying FeaturesGlobose shape, smooth and polished surface, low spire, large aperture, and a prominent columellar callus. The characteristic brown crescent or wavy axial markings on a pale background are a key identifier. Often found with a 'drill hole' from its predatory activity on other shells.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lamarck, 1822)
Description
A small to medium-sized marine gastropod shell, characterized by its globose and smooth form. The shell exhibits a low spire and a wide, semi-circular aperture. Its surface is typically polished, and the columella often features a prominent callus. The coloration is a pale cream or tan background adorned with distinctive brown, crescent-shaped or wavy axial markings arranged in bands.
