Thaisella chocolata
NameThaisella chocolata
Scientific NameThaisella chocolata
Common NameChocolate Rock Snail
FamilyMuricidae
GenusThaisella
Specieschocolata
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Baja California, Mexico, southwards along the coast of Central and South America to Peru.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)20
Identifying FeaturesRobust, somewhat smooth shell with fine growth lines and occasional pitting. Distinctive ovate-conical shape with a broad body whorl. Wide, ovate aperture with a smooth, often purplish-brown and white interior. Short siphonal canal. The overall chocolate-brownish coloration is a key characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Duclos, 1832)
Description
A robust, medium-sized marine gastropod shell, exhibiting an ovate-conical to turbinate shape with a moderately elevated spire and a wide, ovate aperture. The shell surface is generally smooth but displays fine growth lines and some irregular pitting. Its coloration ranges from light brown to grayish-brown, often with darker chocolate-brown or purplish-brown patches, particularly around the aperture and on the columella. The interior of the aperture is glossy, revealing shades of purplish-brown to white.
