Sieve Cowry
NameSieve Cowry
Scientific NameCribrarula cribraria
Common NameSieve Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusCribrarula
Speciescribraria
Geographic DistributionWidespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including areas like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)15-40
Identifying FeaturesThe combination of the reddish-brown shell with prominent white spots and the bright red/orange, papillated mantle is highly characteristic. The mantle's color and texture are key in live specimens.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
The Sieve Cowry, *Cribrarula cribraria*, is a distinctive marine gastropod known for its striking shell and vibrant mantle. Its ovate, smooth, and glossy shell is typically reddish-brown to orange-brown, adorned with numerous round, white spots that resemble a sieve. In live specimens, a brilliant red or orange mantle, often covered with small, branched papillae, extends over and partially or fully covers the shell. This species is found across the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting coral and rocky reefs where it feeds on sponges and detritus.
