Polinices waipipiensis
NamePolinices waipipiensis
Scientific NamePolinices waipipiensis
Common NameWaipipi Moon Snail (fossil)
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Specieswaipipiensis
Geographic DistributionFossil records primarily from New Zealand, particularly the Waipipi Formation (Pliocene epoch).
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)Based on the image and typical sizes for the genus, likely in the range of 30-60 mm in height, though precise measurement is not possible from the image alone.
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth shell with a low spire; large, semicircular to D-shaped aperture; typically a large, thick umbilical callus (though not clearly visible from this angle in the image). The overall robust and streamlined shape is characteristic of burrowing predatory snails.
Rarityrare
Author CitationMarwick, 1924
Description
A fossil seashell specimen of Polinices waipipiensis, a species of moon snail. The shell is globose to subglobose with a low spire and a smooth, somewhat eroded surface. The aperture is large and D-shaped. The shell material appears thick and is off-white to pale grey, with some darker specks, likely remnants of sediment or matrix. The overall shape is characteristic of the Naticidae family, adapted for burrowing in soft substrates.
