rotary star shell
Namerotary star shell
Scientific NameAstralium rotularia
Common Namerotary star shell
FamilyTurbinidae
GenusAstralium
Speciesrotularia
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas like the Philippines, Indonesia, and other tropical Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)30-60 mm in diameter
Identifying FeaturesConical shape, flattened base, prominent peripheral spines or nodules, often heavily encrusted, and a pearly interior (though not visible in the image). The 'star-like' appearance due to the peripheral projections is a key identifier.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lamarck, 1822)
Description
A heavily encrusted marine gastropod shell, appearing conical or trochiform in shape. The shell surface is rough and irregular due to significant biofouling, primarily with algae and detritus. A distinctive feature visible is a series of prominent, blunt, or worn spines/nodules around the periphery of the body whorl, giving it a star-like appearance. The visible color is a dull, mottled greenish-white to dark gray, largely due to the encrustations. It is situated on a sandy-rocky substrate, likely in an intertidal or shallow subtidal environment.
