Description
The Strombus dentatus, or toothed conch, is a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Strombidae, known for its distinctive shell. It's a relatively small conch, with a shell length ranging from about 22 to 52mm. The shell has a flaring outer lip with a notch near the anterior end, and is characterized by three pointed projections near the opening. It is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically at low tide marks.
Here's a more detailed description:
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Shell Shape and Size: The shell is relatively small, with a maximum size of 6 cm (male/unsexed). It is elongate and moderately large.
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Outer Lip: The outer lip is flared and features a stromboid notch, a key characteristic of the Strombidae family. It also has three pointed projections near the anterior end.
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Color: The shell can be cream, orange, or salmon-pink.
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Surface: It has a relatively smooth surface, though it can have spines on the body whorl.
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Spire: The spire is short and pointed.
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Habitat: Strombus dentatus is typically found in shallow, sandy waters, sometimes buried in sand or rubble, on seaward reefs at depths of 5 to 25m.
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Distribution: They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean
