Vitularia miliaris
NameVitularia miliaris
Scientific NameVitularia miliaris
Common NameMiliary Vitularia
FamilyMuricidae
GenusVitularia
Speciesmiliaris
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesThe distinctive broadly ovate shape, strong nodulose sculpture (axial ribs and spiral cords), and relatively short spire are key identifying features. The aperture is ovate, and the siphonal canal is short. The shell often appears somewhat rugged or worn.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
A medium-sized, broadly ovate to fusiform seashell, predominantly reddish-brown with lighter, almost whitish, patches and darker streaks. The shell exhibits strong axial ribs and spiral cords, giving it a nodulose or tuberculate texture. The spire is relatively low, and the body whorl is large. The shell in the image appears somewhat worn and is currently occupied by a hermit crab, whose orange antennae and black-and-red spotted legs are visible.
