Polinices candidissimus
NamePolinices candidissimus
Scientific NamePolinices candidissimus
Common NameWhite Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciescandidissimus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas around Australia, New Caledonia, and other Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 20 mm to 50 mm in height.
Identifying FeaturesIts most distinguishing features are its smooth, uniformly white or cream, globose shell, the low spire, large body whorl, and the prominent, often white, umbilical callus that covers the umbilicus. The D-shaped aperture is also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Le Guillou, 1842)
Description
Polinices candidissimus is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Naticidae, commonly known as moon snails. This species is characterized by its smooth, globose, and typically white shell, reflecting its scientific name 'candidissimus' meaning 'most white'. Like other moon snails, it is a burrowing predator, feeding on other molluscs by drilling a characteristic hole into their shells.
