Brown Turban Snail or Black Turban Snail
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Vetigastropoda, Family: Trochidae, Genus: Chlorostoma, Species: Chlorostoma brunnea · Trochidae (Top Snail family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Chlorostoma brunnea
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Trochidae (Top Snail family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch in diameter, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.8 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Dark brown to nearly black exterior, often with a smooth or slightly eroded matte finish revealing subtle dark greenish or brownish tones. The apex shows hints of lighter tan or cream underlayers where worn.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal rocky shores, typically found clinging to rocks in kelp forests and tide pools.
Geographic Range
Northeastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from British Columbia, Canada, down to central California, USA.
Description
A compact, globose to slightly conical shell with a rounded profile and low spire. The surface is mostly smooth with fine growth lines. A distinctive small hole or damage is visible on the body whorl. The overall texture is solid and heavy for its size.
Key Features
Rounded turban shape, low spire, dark brown to black coloration, solid heavy construction, and typically lacking the strong spiral cords seen in some related species.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. Commonly collected by beachcombers in its native range, mostly kept as a representative example of Pacific intertidal gastropods.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; shows some surface wear and a noticeable puncture or hole on the body whorl, likely caused by a predator or impact against rocks.
Interesting Facts
Turban snails are herbivores that graze heavily on microalgae and kelp. They play a significant role in maintaining the balance of algae in tide pool ecosystems.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important herbivore controlling algae growth, and acts as a food source for crabs, sea stars, and fish.
Similar Species
Chlorostoma funebralis (Black Turban Snail), which has a more sharply conical profile and is often found in higher intertidal zones.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky northern Pacific beaches and tide pools during low tide, particularly near beds of giant kelp.