Talostolida latior
NameTalostolida latior
Scientific NameTalostolida latior
Common NameBroad Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusTalostolida
Specieslatior
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and parts of Queensland, Australia.
Average Size (mm)15-35 mm in length, with most specimens falling between 20-30 mm.
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its ovate, somewhat broad shell (reflected in the name 'latior'), the distinctive pattern of brown blotches on a cream shell (when the mantle is retracted), and especially the vibrant reddish-orange mantle covered with numerous dark, prominent papillae. The two prominent tentacles extending from the anterior end are also characteristic of living cowries.
Dietdetritivore
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Melvill, 1888)
Description
Talostolida latior is a species of marine gastropod mollusk, commonly known as a cowrie. The image displays a living specimen underwater, with its mantle largely extended and covering the shell. The mantle is a striking reddish-orange to brown, adorned with numerous small, dark, raised papillae. The visible parts of the shell, where the mantle is retracted, show a cream background with irregular brown blotches. This species is typically found in tropical Indo-Pacific waters, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky substrates.
