Princely Cone
NamePrincely Cone
Scientific NameConus aulicus
Common NamePrincely Cone
FamilyConidae
GenusConus
Speciesaulicus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including East Africa, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Western Pacific, ranging from Japan to Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)Ranges from approximately 50 mm to 150 mm in length, with an average size often between 80-100 mm.
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying feature is its unique and striking color pattern of large, irregular yellow/orange patches on a dark background. Its elongated-conical shape, broad shoulder, and low spire are also characteristic. In live specimens, the visible siphon is often reddish-brown with lighter bands, and the foot/mantle edge can be mottled black and white.
Rarityrare
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
The Princely Cone (*Conus aulicus*) is a large, predatory sea snail belonging to the family Conidae. It is renowned for its strikingly beautiful and distinctive shell, which features a pattern of irregular, often triangular or tent-like yellow, orange, or reddish-brown patches on a dark brown to black background. Like other cone snails, it is venomous, using a specialized harpoon-like radular tooth to inject potent neurotoxins to paralyze its prey, primarily small fish. This species is highly sought after by shell collectors.
