Pachyoliva semistriata
NamePachyoliva semistriata
Scientific NamePachyoliva semistriata
Common NameSemi-striated Olive
FamilyOlividae
GenusPachyoliva
Speciessemistriata
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and along the coast of Brazil. Its range extends from Florida, USA, southwards.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)15-30
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, highly glossy shell; elongated, conical shape with a pointed spire; characteristic spiral color banding; long, narrow aperture; and a columella that typically features folds (though not clearly visible in this image). The 'semistriata' refers to fine, often microscopic, striations on the lower part of the body whorl.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1839)
Description
A small, elongated, and glossy marine gastropod shell, held delicately between human fingers. The shell exhibits a conical spire and a smooth, polished surface. Its coloration consists of a light brownish-grey background adorned with distinct darker purplish-brown spiral bands, particularly noticeable on the body whorl and spire. The base of the shell near the aperture is a contrasting creamy white. The aperture itself appears long and narrow, characteristic of olive shells. The specimen in the image is relatively small, suggesting it might be a juvenile or a smaller adult form of the species.
