Purple Dye Murex
NamePurple Dye Murex
Scientific NameBolinus brandaris
Common NamePurple Dye Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusBolinus
Speciesbrandaris
Geographic DistributionPrimarily found in the Mediterranean Sea and along the Atlantic coast of Europe and North Africa.
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 60 to 90 mm in length, though some specimens can reach up to 100 mm.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its very long, straight siphonal canal, the prominent and sharp spines on the body whorl and spire, and its overall robust, fusiform shape. The aperture is oval, and the outer lip is often denticulate internally.
Dietcarnivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
The Purple Dye Murex is a medium-sized predatory sea snail, historically renowned for being a primary source of Tyrian purple dye. Its shell is robust, fusiform, and characterized by prominent, sharp, hollow spines arranged in spiral rows, particularly on the body whorl. It possesses a distinctive long, straight siphonal canal. The shell's coloration can vary, often appearing greenish-grey to olive-green, sometimes with encrustations, and typically has a yellowish or orange aperture. It inhabits sandy or muddy substrates in marine environments.
