Shark Eye Moon Snail (also known as Atlantic Moon Snail)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Naticidae, Genus: Neverita, Species: Neverita duplicata · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, globular or spherical shape
Species
Euspira lewisii or Neverita duplicata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, globular or spherical shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, which is typical for a young to medium-sized adult specimen. Adults can range up to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Smooth, polished porcelain-like finish with a mostly solid off-white or cream coloration, showing subtle brownish-grey undertones near the apex and umbilical region. The colors appear somewhat sun-bleached.
Rarity
Common, frequently found washed ashore on sandy beaches after storms or high tides.
Habitat
Inhabits shallow subtidal and intertidal zones down to moderate depths, typically burying itself in sandy or muddy substrates where it hunts for bivalve prey.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico, including the Caribbean and parts of South America.
Description
A classic, globose marine snail shell characterized by its smooth, rounded whorls, low spire, and a wide, rounded aperture. The shell has a porcelain texture with a thick callus partially covering the umbilicus, giving it a sturdy and compact feel.
Key Features
Globular, spherical shape with a very low spire, smooth polished exterior surface, large rounded aperture, and a distinctive callus filling or partially covering the central umbilicus.
Collector Value
Low to Moderate value. While very common and inexpensive to purchase, they are popular beginner shells and appreciated for their smooth, tactile shape.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The shell is intact with no major structural fractures, but exhibits some surface fading and sun-bleaching characteristic of beach-worn specimens.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are predatory carnivores that drill clean, countersunk holes into the shells of bivalves using an acidic secretion and a radula to feed on the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Acts as a key apex predator in benthic sandy environments, controlling bivalve populations and providing discarded shells as homes for hermit crabs.
Similar Species
Neverita lewisii (Lewis's Moon Snail), which tends to grow much larger and is found on the Pacific coast of North America.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy beaches during low tide, particularly near sandbars or areas where surf clam shells are abundant, as moon snails follow their prey.