Purpurellus pinniger
NamePurpurellus pinniger
Scientific NamePurpurellus pinniger
Common NamePinnate Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusPurpurellus
Speciespinniger
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, including regions such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and surrounding areas.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive features are the elaborate, flattened, and frilly axial varices that give it a 'feathered' or 'pinnate' appearance. These varices are often thin and expanded. The shell is relatively lightweight for its size due to its delicate sculpture.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Broderip, 1833)
Description
A highly ornate and distinctive marine gastropod shell, characterized by its elaborate, frilly, and leaf-like axial varices. The shell is predominantly off-white to cream with reddish-brown markings, particularly on the ribs and within the aperture. It belongs to the murex family and is prized by collectors for its intricate sculpture.
