Shark Eye Moon Snail, also known as Atlantic Moon Snail or Northern Moon Snail
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Naticidae, Genus: Neverita, Species: Neverita duplicata · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod univalve, whole shell with a globular, rounded spiral shape
Species
Neverita duplicata (formerly Polinices duplicatus)
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve, whole shell with a globular, rounded spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 inches, which is small for this species. Adults typically range from 1 to 3 inches in diameter.
Color & Pattern
Uniform glossy off-white to creamy beige with subtle growth lines, lacking the darker brownish-purple coloration typical near the umbilicus due to weathering or being a younger specimen. The colors are natural but slightly sun-bleached.
Rarity
Very Common, frequently found washed up on sandy beaches throughout its range.
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, primarily burrowing beneath sandy or muddy substrates in marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Massachusetts south to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, as well as along parts of South America.
Description
A smooth, highly polished, globular marine snail shell with a low, rounded spire and a large body whorl. The surface is porcelaneous with fine, concentric growth lines. The aperture is wide and half-moon shaped, showcasing a smooth interior.
Key Features
Globular and rounded shape, low spire, smooth porcelain-like texture, and a characteristic half-moon shaped aperture.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. While very common and inexpensive, they are popular starter shells for beginners and beachcombers due to their smooth, tactile appeal.
Condition Notes
Good condition, intact whole shell with minor wear and a slightly sun-bleached surface. Collectibility grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are predatory carnivores that drill circular holes into the shells of other bivalves using their radula and acidic secretions to consume the prey inside.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important marine predator controlling bivalve populations in sandy benthic ecosystems, while their empty shells provide vital secondary housing for hermit crabs.
Similar Species
Neverita lewisii (Lewis's Moon Snail) which is typically much larger and found on the Pacific coast, and Euspira heros (Northern Moon Snail) which is taller and more globular.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy shorelines at low tide, especially near sandbars or tidal flats after stormy weather when shifting sands uncover buried shells.