Purple Olive Snail
NamePurple Olive Snail
Scientific NameOlivella biplicata
Common NamePurple Olive Snail
FamilyOlividae
GenusOlivella
Speciesbiplicata
Geographic DistributionPacific coast of North America, ranging from British Columbia, Canada, south to Baja California, Mexico.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesIts most distinguishing features include its smooth, glossy, olive-shaped shell, the small pointed spire, the long narrow aperture, and the characteristic purple band on the body whorl. The columella often has a callus.
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby, 1825
Description
The Purple Olive Snail is a small to medium-sized marine gastropod mollusk, known for its distinctive smooth, glossy, and olive-shaped shell. It is a burrowing snail found in sandy substrates along the Pacific coast of North America. The shell's coloration, particularly the prominent purple band, makes it easily recognizable.
