Snakehead Cowrie
NameSnakehead Cowrie
Scientific NameErosaria caputserpentis
Common NameSnakehead Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusErosaria
Speciescaputserpentis
Geographic DistributionWidespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including Hawaii.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)25-45
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinguishing features are the dark brown, almost blackish, margins contrasting with the reddish-brown dorsum covered in white spots. The overall ovate, highly polished cowrie shape is also characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
The Snakehead Cowrie is a medium-sized, ovate gastropod shell, highly polished and dorsally convex. Its distinctive pattern features a reddish-brown to dark brown dorsum densely covered with small white spots, often resembling a reticulated pattern. The margins are notably darker, appearing blackish-brown, while the base is typically whitish or pale cream. This species is commonly found in rocky intertidal and shallow subtidal zones across the Indo-Pacific, where it grazes on algae.
