three-horned conch
Namethree-horned conch
Scientific NameConomurex tricornis
Common Namethree-horned conch
FamilyStrombidae
GenusConomurex
Speciestricornis
Geographic DistributionRed Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and parts of the Indian Ocean (e.g., off Somalia, Oman, Yemen).
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)100
Identifying FeaturesThree prominent, horn-like projections on the outer lip; characteristic wavy or reticulated brown patterns on a lighter background; thick, heavy shell; stromboid notch.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Lightfoot, 1786)
Description
A medium to large-sized, heavy marine gastropod shell, characterized by its conical shape, prominent spire, and a flared outer lip typically bearing three distinct horn-like projections. The shell's exterior displays intricate brown wavy or reticulated patterns on a creamy white to yellowish-brown background, while the interior of the aperture is smooth and often pale pink or orange.
