punctate cowrie
Namepunctate cowrie
Scientific NameErosaria punctata
Common NamePunctate Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Speciespunctata
Geographic DistributionWidespread in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like the Red Sea, East Africa, Indian Ocean, and across to the Western Pacific, including Australia and various Pacific islands.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)15-35
Identifying FeaturesThe combination of its small size, glossy white shell, and characteristic distinct dark brown spots on the dorsal surface makes it easily identifiable among cowries. The finely toothed, often orange-brown tinged aperture is also a key feature.
Dietherbivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1771)
Description
A small, ovate, and highly glossy cowrie shell. The dorsal surface is typically porcelain white to cream, adorned with numerous distinct, dark brown, often circular or irregular spots of varying sizes. The ventral side is also white or cream, featuring a long, narrow aperture with fine, prominent teeth on both the outer and inner lips, which are often tinged with orange or light brown. The shell's ends are slightly produced.
