tessellate olive
Nametessellate olive
Scientific NameOliva tessellata
Common NameTessellate olive
FamilyOlividae
GenusOliva
Speciestessellata
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and various Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-50
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy, cylindrical shell; distinctive purplish-brown tessellated (spotted/blotched) pattern on a light background; intensely colored purplish-pink to magenta aperture and columella; short, conical spire; columella often features several folds.
Raritycommon
Author CitationGray, 1839
Description
A medium-sized, smooth, and highly glossy olive shell, characterized by its elongated, cylindrical shape. The shell's exterior is typically a whitish or cream base color, adorned with irregular purplish-brown spots or blotches. The aperture is long and narrow, and the interior, particularly the columella, displays a striking purplish-pink to magenta coloration. The spire is short and conical.
