Uvanilla olivacea
NameUvanilla olivacea
Scientific NameUvanilla olivacea
Common NameOlive Turban, Olive Top Shell
FamilyTrochidae
GenusUvanilla
Speciesolivacea
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Southern California (USA) down to Baja California (Mexico).
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapeturbinate
Average Size (mm)The shells typically range from 25 to 50 mm (1 to 2 inches) in diameter.
Identifying FeaturesHeavy, solid shell; low, turbinate spire; variable but often olive-green to brown coloration with spiral patterns; pearly white interior with a distinctive reddish-orange columellar callus. The operculum (not visible in image) is thick, calcareous, and white.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Wood, 1828)
Description
The image displays four specimens of Uvanilla olivacea, commonly known as the olive turban snail. These are robust, heavy shells with a low, turbinate to trochiform shape. The exterior surfaces exhibit varied patterns of olive-green, brown, and reddish-brown, often with spiral banding or mottled coloration. The shell texture appears somewhat rough, possibly due to erosion or growth lines. One shell is shown with its aperture facing upwards, revealing a pearly white interior and a distinctive reddish-orange columellar area, which is a key identifying feature for this species. The spire is low, and the overall form is solid and conical.
