Atlantic Oyster Drill
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Urosalpinx, Species: Urosalpinx cinerea · Muricidae (Murex or Rock Snail family) · Gastropod (univalve); whole shell with a fusiform/ovate spiral shape.
Species
Urosalpinx cinerea
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve); whole shell with a fusiform/ovate spiral shape.
Family
Muricidae (Murex or Rock Snail family)
Size
Approximately 15-20mm in length. This is a juvenile or sub-adult specimen, as adults typically reach 25-35mm.
Color & Pattern
Translucent white to pale grey with faint purplish-brown highlights on the apex and the outer lip. The interior of the aperture is a smooth, creamy tan. Colors appear natural but slightly weathered.
Rarity
Very Common; often found in abundance in estuaries and oyster-producing regions.
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, particularly in oyster reefs, rocky shores, and salt marshes. Marine environment.
Geographic Range
Native to the Western Atlantic from Canada to Florida; introduced and widespread in the Pacific Northwest and Europe.
Description
A small, rugged predatory snail shell featuring a high, pointed spire and a rounded body whorl. The surface is sculpted with rhythmic vertical ribs and fine spiral cords. The aperture is oval-shaped with a short, open siphonal canal.
Key Features
Short siphonal canal, 5 to 6 whorls, distinct longitudinal ribs crossed by spiral lines, and a thickened outer lip that sometimes features small teeth inside.
Collector Value
Low monetary value due to its abundance, but highly desirable for educational collections focusing on marine ecology or predatory gastropods. Estimated value: under $1.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The protoconch (tip) is intact, which is rare for this species. No predator bore holes are visible, though the surface shows minor environmental abrasion. Grade: Fine.
Interesting Facts
This snail is a notorious pest in the shellfish industry; it uses an acidic secretion and a radula to drill perfect circular holes into the shells of oysters and mussels to consume the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Top-down predator of bivalves. They play a significant role in controlling oyster populations but are considered an invasive threat in areas where they were accidentally introduced via oyster seeding.
Similar Species
Eupleura caudata (Thick-lipped Oyster Drill), which has more prominent, flattened lateral ribs and a more pronounced flare at the lip.
Beach Finding Tips
Search near oyster bars or limestone outcroppings at low tide. Look in the 'drift line' among crushed shell debris where smaller micromollusks accumulate.