Venus Comb Murex
NameVenus Comb Murex
Scientific NameMurex pecten
Common NameVenus Comb Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusMurex
Speciespecten
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, and parts of Australia.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)125
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying feature is the presence of numerous (often over 100), very long, delicate, and sharp spines arranged in rows along the shell, resembling a comb. The exceptionally long siphonal canal is also a key characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author CitationLinnaeus, 1758
Description
A highly distinctive marine gastropod shell, renowned for its intricate and delicate structure. It features an elongated siphonal canal and numerous long, slender, comb-like spines that radiate from the shell's whorls. These spines are believed to offer protection from predators and help the mollusk anchor itself in soft substrates.
