Scotch Bonnet (Also known as the Banded Tun or Atlantic Scotch Bonnet)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Cassidae, Genus: Phalium, Species: Phalium granulatum · Cassidae (Helmet and Bonnet shells) · Gastropod (univalve snail), whole shell, ovate or globular spiral shape
Species
Phalium granulatum
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve snail), whole shell, ovate or globular spiral shape
Family
Cassidae (Helmet and Bonnet shells)
Size
Approximately 2 inches long, which is a medium-sized adult specimen. Adults typically range from 1.5 to 3.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Pale cream to golden-tan base color with subtle spiral rows of brownish-orange rectangular spots or bands, though this specimen appears slightly sun-bleached with faint pattern retention.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon, frequently sought after by beachcombers in the American Southeast and Caribbean.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal waters, often found buried in clean sandy bottoms, offshore sand bars, and near coral reefs or seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil.
Description
An attractive, globular, thin-lipped marine snail shell featuring prominent spiral cords and rows of low, rounded nodes. The spire is moderately low, and the body whorl is inflated, terminating in a delicate reflected outer lip.
Key Features
Inflated body whorl, prominent spiral ridges or cords, fine granulation on the shoulder, and a relatively low spire with a small pointed apex.
Collector Value
Moderately high desirability among regional collectors, especially for pristine specimens with bright banding. Typically valued between $5 to $20 depending on condition and size.
Condition Notes
Good condition; mostly intact with a slightly worn apex and faded color patterns due to natural weathering. Graded as a Good/Fine collector specimen.
Interesting Facts
Scotch Bonnet is the official state shell of North Carolina. The living snails are nocturnal predators that specialize in feeding on sea urchins and sand dollars, using their acidic secretions to soften the prey's test.
Ecological Role
Acts as a specialized predator controlling sea urchin populations in benthic habitats, helping maintain balance in local marine ecosystems.
Similar Species
Cassis madagascariensis (Emperor Helmet) and other Cassis species, which are generally much larger and possess heavier, thicker lips.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along ocean-facing beaches after heavy storms or rough seas, particularly during low tide on sloping sandy shores where offshore sand bars shift.