Northern Moonsnail
NameNorthern Moonsnail
Scientific NameEuspira heros
Common NameNorthern Moonsnail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusEuspira
Speciesheros
Geographic DistributionNorth Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Arctic Canada south to New Jersey in North America, and across to Europe, including Norway and the British Isles.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)130
Identifying FeaturesLarge, smooth, globose shell with a low spire and a distinctive color gradient. The most striking feature is its enormous, pale, fleshy foot, which can expand to cover the entire shell, aiding in burrowing and movement. It is a predatory snail known for drilling a characteristic beveled hole into the shells of its prey.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Say, 1822)
Description
A large marine gastropod characterized by its globose, smooth shell and a remarkably large, pale, fleshy foot. The animal is often seen partially or fully extended, with its foot enveloping much of the shell, allowing it to glide over or burrow into sandy substrates. The shell exhibits a distinct color gradient from its apex to the aperture.
