rhinoceros cowrie
Namerhinoceros cowrie
Scientific NameMauritia rhinoceros
Common Namerhinoceros cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusMauritia
Speciesrhinoceros
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to the Western Pacific, including areas like the Philippines and Indonesia.
Average Size (mm)15
Identifying FeaturesIts relatively small size for a cowrie, combined with the glossy, ovate shape and the specific pattern of dark brown spots on a lighter brown background, are key identifying features. The smooth, polished surface is also characteristic of cowries.
Dietdetritivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lightfoot, 1786)
Description
A small, ovate, and highly glossy cowrie shell. The dorsal surface is typically light brown to tan, adorned with irregular darker brown spots and blotches. The base is a lighter, often off-white or cream color. It exhibits the characteristic smooth, humped shape of cowries, with a narrow aperture on the ventral side.
