Spiny Murex
NameSpiny Murex
Scientific NameMurex tribulus
Common NameSpiny Murex, Thorny Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusMurex
Speciestribulus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific, ranging from East Africa to Japan and Australia.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)50-150 mm (2-6 inches) in length. The specimen in the image appears to be in the range of 70-100 mm.
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying features are the numerous, sharp, hollow spines covering the entire shell, including the spire, body whorl, and siphonal canal. The overall robust, fusiform shape and the characteristic murex aperture are also key. The siphonal canal is moderately long and also spiny.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A predatory marine gastropod shell, characterized by its robust, fusiform shape and numerous sharp, hollow spines covering the entire shell, including the spire, body whorl, and siphonal canal. The shell typically exhibits a yellowish-brown to cream coloration, often with darker markings, and has an ovate aperture. The specimen in the image appears to be alive, with the soft body visible within the aperture.
