Pterynotus elongatus
NamePterynotus elongatus
Scientific NamePterynotus elongatus
Common NameElongate Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusPterynotus
Specieselongatus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of the Western Pacific.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)40
Identifying FeaturesThree prominent, frilly, and often spiny varices per whorl; elongated fusiform shape; long, slender siphonal canal; delicate, layered frills on the varices.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lightfoot, 1786)
Description
An elegant, medium-sized murex shell characterized by its elongated, fusiform shape and three prominent, frilly, and often spiny varices per whorl. The shell is typically white to cream, sometimes with light brown or yellowish-orange markings, particularly on the varices and spire. It possesses a long, slender, and slightly recurved siphonal canal and a smooth, ovate, white aperture. The delicate, layered frills on the varices are a distinctive feature, giving it a winged appearance.
