The Nautilus Log
Recluz's Moon Snail

Recluz's Moon Snail

NameRecluz's Moon Snail
Scientific NamePolinices recluzianus
Common NameRecluz's Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusPolinices
Speciesrecluzianus
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from California (USA) south to Baja California (Mexico) and beyond. Also found in parts of the Western Pacific.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, polished surface; globose shape with a low spire; large body whorl; characteristic color banding (often with a darker band below the suture); a prominent callus that partially or completely covers the umbilicus (though not clearly visible from this dorsal view).
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Deshayes, 1839)

Description

A medium-sized, globose marine gastropod shell, characterized by its smooth, somewhat polished surface and low spire. The shell in the image exhibits a warm brown to grayish-brown coloration with subtle banding, typical of the species. It is held between fingers, indicating its moderate size.

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