rare-spined murex
Namerare-spined murex
Scientific NameHaustellum haustellum
Common NameSnipe's Bill Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusHaustellum
Specieshaustellum
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including waters off the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and other tropical areas.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)70
Identifying FeaturesKey features include the extremely long, straight siphonal canal, the presence of numerous sharp, yellowish spines along the varices, and the overall fusiform shell morphology.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
This marine gastropod shell, commonly referred to as a rare-spined murex, is characterized by its elongated, fusiform shape, a very long and straight siphonal canal, and prominent varices adorned with numerous sharp, yellowish spines. The shell exhibits a cream to light brown base color with subtle spiral banding.
