Moon Snail (Shark Eye / 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, spiral shape
Species
Neverita duplicata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter, which is typical for a mature specimen. Adult species generally range from 1.5 to 3.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
The specimen is heavily weathered and sun-bleached, presenting a uniform matte off-white, light gray, and pale tan coloration. The original glossy finish and typical brownish-purple hue near the umbilicus are obscured due to weathering.
Rarity
Very Common, frequently found washed ashore on sandy ocean beaches after storms or high tides.
Habitat
Inhabits shallow subtidal and intertidal zones down to moderate depths, typically burying itself just beneath the surface of sandy or muddy bottoms in bays, estuaries, and coastal waters.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic from Massachusetts southward along the United States coast to the Gulf of Mexico and Florida.
Description
A sturdy, globular, low-spired shell with a smooth, polished exterior when fresh. The body whorl is greatly enlarged, dominating the overall rounded shape. The aperture is large and semi-lunar, and the spire is very low and compact.
Key Features
Globular shape with a very low spire, large body whorl, smooth texture, and a distinctive heavy callus near the umbilical area (though often worn in beach specimens).
Collector Value
Low commercial or collector value due to common abundance and the worn condition of this specific beach-found specimen. Ideal for casual beachcombing collections or craft projects.
Condition Notes
Worn and heavily sun-bleached condition (Fair grade). The shell shows significant surface erosion with loss of original luster and color, but remains structurally intact as a whole specimen.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are famous carnivorous predators that drill perfectly circular, bevel-edged holes into the shells of bivalves using an acidic secretion and a rasping radula before consuming the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Acts as an apex predator in benthic soft-bottom communities, helping to control bivalve populations. Their egg masses, known as sand collars, provide a temporary substrate for various micro-organisms.
Similar Species
Neverita lewisiana (Lewis's Moon Snail) which is generally larger and found on the Pacific coast, and various species within the Euspira genus.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy shorelines during low tide, especially after strong onshore winds or storms. Check the damp sand along the surf line where whole shells or moon snail egg collars ('sand collars') are frequently exposed.