Thais ambustulata
NameThais ambustulata
Scientific NameThais ambustulata
Common NameBurnt Rock Snail (inferred from 'ambustulata'), Rock Snail
FamilyMuricidae
GenusThais
Speciesambustulata
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and other tropical western Pacific islands.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20-40 mm (can range from 15 mm to over 40 mm)
Identifying FeaturesKey features include its robust, nodulose shell with strong axial ribs and spiral cords, and the characteristic dark brown to black axial markings on a lighter background. The spire is moderately high, and the siphonal canal is relatively short.
Raritycommon
Author CitationReeve, 1846
Description
A robust, medium-sized marine gastropod shell, characterized by its turbinate to ovate-conical shape and distinctive color patterns. It belongs to the family Muricidae, commonly known as rock snails or murex snails. The shell exhibits strong sculptural elements, including prominent axial ribs and spiral cords, often adorned with nodules or blunt spines, particularly on the shoulder of the whorls. Its coloration typically features a light background with striking dark markings.
