Sharp-rib Drill
NameSharp-rib Drill
Scientific NameEupleura caudata
Common NameSharp-rib Drill
FamilyMuricidae
GenusEupleura
Speciescaudata
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic, ranging from Massachusetts south to Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)15-30
Identifying FeaturesSharp, blade-like axial varices; denticulate outer lip of the aperture; relatively straight siphonal canal; and characteristic dark spiral banding.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Say, 1822)
Description
The Sharp-rib Drill is a small to medium-sized predatory sea snail, characterized by its fusiform shell with a high spire and prominent, often sharp, axial ribs or varices. The shell typically exhibits a whitish to grayish-white background color, frequently adorned with distinct dark brown or purplish-brown spiral bands, particularly noticeable on the varices and within the aperture. The aperture features a denticulate (toothed) outer lip and a moderately long, straight siphonal canal. This species is known for its carnivorous diet, preying on other mollusks.
