Sinum haliotoideum
NameSinum haliotoideum
Scientific NameSinum haliotoideum
Common NameEar Shell, Ear Moon Snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusSinum
Specieshaliotoideum
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 20 to 50 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesIts most distinguishing features are its extremely flattened, ear-like shape, very low spire, wide aperture, and smooth, often pearly white surface. Unlike many other moon snails, it lacks a prominent umbilicus or has a very narrow one.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A species of predatory sea snail, commonly known as the Ear Shell or Ear Moon Snail, characterized by its distinctive flattened, ear-shaped shell. The shell in the image is off-white to pale cream, smooth, and glossy, with a very low spire almost entirely concealed by the last body whorl. It is depicted resting on a sandy substrate with small pebbles.
