Zoila venusta
NameZoila venusta
Scientific NameZoila venusta
Common NameVenusta Cowrie
FamilyCypraeidae
GenusZoila
Speciesvenusta
Geographic DistributionEndemic to Western Australia, found along its southwestern coast.
Average Size (mm)40-100 mm, with typical specimens ranging from 60-80 mm.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, ovate, and highly glossy shell; distinctive reddish-brown dorsal pattern with darker markings; flattened base with a narrow, finely toothed aperture; often a prominent callus on the base. The living animal's dark mantle frequently extends to partially cover the shell.
Rarityrare
Author CitationSowerby I, 1846
Description
A large, glossy cowrie shell, *Zoila venusta* is highly prized by collectors. It is characterized by its ovate, humped shape and distinctive reddish-brown dorsal coloration with darker blotches, often found on sandy or rocky substrates in deeper waters off Western Australia. The image shows a living specimen on a sandy seabed, with its dark mantle partially extended over the shell.
