Vitularia salebrosa
NameVitularia salebrosa
Scientific NameVitularia salebrosa
Common NameSalebrous Vitularia
FamilyMuricidae
GenusVitularia
Speciessalebrosa
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
Habitatsubtidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)30-70
Identifying FeaturesRobust, fusiform shell with strong axial ribs and spiral cords forming nodules or blunt spines. The surface is characteristically rough ('salebrous'). The aperture has an internally denticulate outer lip and a short siphonal canal. Often found with significant epibiont growth.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(King & Broderip, 1832)
Description
A robust, medium-sized marine gastropod shell, commonly known as the Salebrous Vitularia. The shell exhibits a fusiform shape with a moderately elevated spire and a rough, nodulose surface. The exterior is typically brownish-grey to dark brown, often heavily encrusted with white calcareous growths, as seen in the image. The aperture is ovate, with a white to bluish-white interior, and often features a brownish-orange stain on the columella and outer lip margin. The outer lip is internally denticulate, and the siphonal canal is relatively short.
