Pale cowrie
NamePale cowrie
Scientific NameErosaria pallida
Common NamePale cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Speciespallida
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 25 mm to 60 mm in length, with an average around 30-40 mm.
Identifying FeaturesThe shell's smooth, glossy, ovate shape and characteristic pale coloration with brown blotches are key. In living specimens, the dark, often granular or papillose mantle partially or fully covers the shell, and the extended siphonal canal and tentacles are visible.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gray, 1824)
Description
A living specimen of a Pale Cowrie (Erosaria pallida) with its mantle partially extended, showcasing its characteristic smooth, glossy, ovate shell with pale coloration and brown blotches. The animal's dark, granular mantle and extended siphonal canal are visible, indicating it is actively moving or feeding in its natural habitat.
