Honeycomb Cowrie, Grained Cowrie
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Cypraeidae, Genus: Staphylaea, Species: Staphylaea nucleus · Cypraeidae (Cowrie family) · Gastropod (univalve); whole shell; oval/sub-cylindrical shape with granular dorsal texture.
Species
Staphylaea nucleus
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve); whole shell; oval/sub-cylindrical shape with granular dorsal texture.
Family
Cypraeidae (Cowrie family)
Size
Estimated at 15-20mm in length. This is an average size for the species, which typically matures between 10mm and 30mm.
Color & Pattern
Overall grayish-white to light brown base color. The dorsal surface is covered in numerous small, raised orange-brown nodules or 'grains'. A faint longitudinal dorsal line is visible where the mantle lobes meet. The base is usually white with fine teething.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While widely distributed, their small size and tendency to hide in reef crevices make them less frequently found as perfect beach specimens compared to larger cowries.
Habitat
Tropical shallow waters, typically found under coral rocks or in crevices on coral reefs. They are nocturnal and inhabit the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones down to about 20 meters.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, extending from East Africa and the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands, including northern Australia and southern Japan.
Description
A distinctive small cowrie characterized by its 'bumpy' texture. Unlike the smooth, glossy surface of most cowries, Staphylaea nucleus has a dorsal surface crowded with small, rounded nodules. The shell is ventrally flattened with a narrow aperture lined by fine, short teeth that extend slightly onto the base.
Key Features
Numerous orangeish nodules covering the dorsum; a distinct dorsal groove or line; fine teething on the aperture; lack of larger spots or blotches common in other cowries.
Collector Value
Low to Moderate ($2 - $10 USD). It is a staple for cowrie collectors due to its unique texture, but generally affordable unless it is an exceptionally large 'Gem' specimen from a specific locality.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in good condition with well-preserved nodules and color. There is some slight wear on the anterior/posterior ends, and the luster is matte, suggesting it was found on a beach rather than collected live. Grade: Fine.
Interesting Facts
The common name 'Honeycomb Cowrie' refers to the pattern formed by the nodules. In life, the animal's mantle is thin and often reddish or branched, which it extends over the shell to protect it and facilitate respiration.
Ecological Role
A nocturnal herbivore/detritivore that grazes on algae and coral polyps. It serves as prey for specialized molluscs, crabs, and fish. It contributes to the biodiversity of healthy reef ecosystems.
Similar Species
Staphylaea limacina (Slug Cowrie), which is typically smoother with white spots rather than raised nodules, and Staphylaea staphylaea, which usually has a more purplish-gray base and smaller, more crowded white nodules.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in tide pools and under dead coral rubble during low tide in Indo-Pacific tropical regions. They are often found in the 'drift line' mingled with other small shells and coral fragments.