Olivella borealis
NameOlivella borealis
Scientific NameOlivella borealis
Common NameNorthern Olive, Boreal Olive
FamilyOlividae
GenusOlivella
Speciesborealis
Geographic DistributionNorth Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska south along the coast of North America to Baja California, Mexico.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)10-25
Identifying FeaturesGlossy, smooth shell with characteristic wavy brown patterns; pointed spire; long, narrow aperture; the animal's large, pale foot often partially covers the shell when active; presence of a prominent siphon. The overall shape and color pattern are key identifiers.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Carpenter, 1864)
Description
A small, active marine gastropod, commonly known as the Northern Olive or Boreal Olive. The shell is smooth, glossy, and typically features distinctive brown patterns on a lighter background. The animal is often seen partially enveloping its shell with its large, pale foot as it glides across or burrows into sandy substrates, as depicted in the image.
