Polinices tawhitirahia
NamePolinices tawhitirahia
Scientific NamePolinices tawhitirahia
Common NameMoon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciestawhitirahia
Geographic DistributionEndemic to New Zealand.
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)15-20
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy, and globose shell; low spire; large body whorl; D-shaped aperture; often possesses a calloused umbilical region (though not clearly visible in this specific image). The overall simple, unornamented appearance is typical.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Dell, 1956)
Description
A small, globose, and smooth marine gastropod shell, predominantly white or off-white in color. The shell exhibits a low spire and a large, inflated body whorl, characteristic of the Moon Snail family. The aperture is D-shaped, and the surface is glossy.
