starry moon snail
Namestarry moon snail
Scientific NameNatica stellata
Common Namestarry moon snail
FamilyNaticidae
GenusNatica
Speciesstellata
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeglobose
Average Size (mm)30
Identifying FeaturesGlobose, smooth, and glossy shell; low spire; large D-shaped aperture; distinctive color pattern of tan/brown with white 'star-like' spots; prominent, open umbilicus.
Raritycommon
Author CitationHedley, 1913
Description
A globose, smooth, and glossy marine gastropod shell with a low spire and a large, D-shaped aperture. The shell exhibits a distinctive color pattern of a tan to orange-brown background adorned with irregular, often star-shaped or blotchy white spots, typically arranged in spiral bands. A prominent, open umbilicus is visible on the underside.
