Vitularia sandwicensis
NameVitularia sandwicensis
Scientific NameVitularia sandwicensis
Common NameHawaiian Vitularia, Hawaiian Murex
FamilyMuricidae
GenusVitularia
Speciessandwicensis
Geographic DistributionEndemic to the Hawaiian Islands, central Pacific Ocean.
Habitatintertidal
Shell Shapefusiform
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 30 to 50 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesThick, heavy shell, often with a rugged, nodulose, or irregularly sculptured surface. Frequently encrusted with marine growth. The aperture is ovate, and a horny operculum is present. Its restricted geographic distribution to Hawaii is also a key identifier.
Rarityrare
Author Citation(Pease, 1861)
Description
A fragment of a thick-shelled marine gastropod, likely showing the aperture and a portion of the body whorl. The exterior is heavily encrusted or naturally colored with reddish-pink hues, possibly due to coralline algae or other epibionts, and appears rugged. The interior of the aperture is smooth and white. A yellowish, horny operculum is visible within the aperture, indicating the presence of the soft body or its recent removal. The shell structure is robust and somewhat irregular.
