Ocinebrellus falcatus
NameOcinebrellus falcatus
Scientific NameOcinebrellus falcatus
Common NameSickle-shaped Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusOcinebrellus
Speciesfalcatus
Geographic DistributionWestern Pacific Ocean, including regions such as Japan, Korea, and China.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesDistinguished by its prominent, frilly, and often recurved or sickle-shaped axial varices. The fusiform shape, moderately high spire, and relatively long siphonal canal are also key features. The aperture's pale purplish-pink interior is also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Sowerby, 1834)
Description
The Ocinebrellus falcatus is a species of predatory sea snail, characterized by its distinctive shell. The shell is fusiform, with a moderately high spire and a relatively long, open siphonal canal. Its most prominent feature is the series of strong, frilly, blade-like axial varices (ribs) that are often recurved or 'sickle-shaped', giving the species its name. These varices are typically adorned with darker brown markings. The shell's surface also exhibits finer spiral sculpture. The aperture is oval, with a smooth columella and a whitish to pale purplish-pink interior. The overall coloration ranges from creamy white to light tan or orange-brown, often with darker brown accents.
