Short-spined Murex
NameShort-spined Murex
Scientific NameHexaplex cichoreum (Gmelin, 1791)
Common NameShort-spined Murex, Endive Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusHexaplex
Speciescichoreum
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, particularly common around the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)50
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive long, straight siphonal canal; three prominent, frilly varices per whorl, each bearing short, blunt spines; a denticulate outer lip; and a generally robust, somewhat elongated shell. The 'short-spined' aspect of its varices is a key identifier.
Raritycommon
Author CitationGmelin, 1791
Description
A predatory marine gastropod shell, characterized by its elongated siphonal canal and prominent, frilly varices adorned with short, blunt spines. The shell in the image appears to be a living specimen, partially buried in a sandy substrate, showcasing its natural habitat.
