Tortoise Cowry
NameTortoise Cowry
Scientific NameMauritia testudinaria
Common NameTortoise Cowry
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusMauritia
Speciestestudinaria
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including East Africa, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Western Pacific, ranging from Madagascar to Hawaii.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)100-150 mm (can reach up to 180 mm)
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, elongated and highly glossy shell, distinctive dark tortoise-shell pattern on the dorsum, long and narrow aperture with numerous fine teeth on both lips, and a slightly thickened and calloused base.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A large, elongated, and highly glossy cowry shell, characterized by its distinctive dark brown and lighter mottled pattern on the dorsal surface, which resembles a tortoise shell. The ventral side features a long, narrow aperture lined with numerous fine, white teeth. The shell's surface is smooth and polished.
