Rose-branch Murex (also known as the Pink Murex or Palmate Murex)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Chicoreus, Species: Chicoreus palmarosae · Muricidae (Murex or Rock Snail family) · Gastropod (univalve). The shell is spiral with a fusiform (spindle) shape, characterized by elaborate frond-like spines.
Species
Chicoreus palmarosae
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve). The shell is spiral with a fusiform (spindle) shape, characterized by elaborate frond-like spines.
Family
Muricidae (Murex or Rock Snail family)
Size
Estimated at 3.5 to 4.5 inches (approx. 90-115mm). This is a mid-sized adult. The species typically ranges from 2.5 to 5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Features a warm tan-to-chocolate brown base color with multiple fine, dark spiral cords. The most striking element is the lavender-to-rose-pink coloration on the tips of the fronds and the aperture edges. The interior is typically a glossy white-cream with a pink-tinged lip.
Rarity
Uncommon to Common. While not impossible to find, high-quality specimens with intact, rose-tipped spines are prized and require dedicated searching or purchasing from specialists.
Habitat
Found in shallow to moderately deep tropical waters (subtidal at 10-50 meters). It typically inhabits coral reef environments and rocky substrates where it over-winter in crevices.
Geographic Range
Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from Sri Lanka and the Chagos Archipelago to the Philippines, Japan, and the Solomon Islands.
Description
A magnificent specimen known for its highly ornamental 'branching' structure. The shell features three primary varices (raised ridges) per whorl, each boasting leafy, frond-like spines that bifurcate (split) at the ends. The body is solid and heavy with a moderate spire and a narrow aperture trailing into a long, spiny siphonal canal.
Key Features
The distinctive 'foliaceous' (leaf-like) spines that end in multiple points resembling rose-colored branches; three prominent varices per whorl; a long, slightly curved siphonal canal; and the characteristic pink-purple coloration at the spine tips.
Collector Value
Moderately desirable. Collector value depends heavily on the 'perfection' of the spines and the intensity of the pink tips. A Gem specimen (perfectly intact spines) can reach $40-$80, while standard beach-worn or slightly chipped specimens range from $15-$30.
Condition Notes
The specimen is in Good to Fine condition. The spines appear mostly intact, which is rare as they are prone to beach-wear. There is visible encrustation or 'weathering' on the early whorls (the spire), which is common for older specimens found in the wild. The pink pigment remains vibrant.
Interesting Facts
The 'Rose-branch' name refers to the spines looking like budding rose branches. Like most Muricids, this is a predatory snail that uses its radula and acidic secretions to drill holes through the shells of other mollusks to eat them.
Ecological Role
A specialized carnivore in the reef ecosystem. It helps control populations of other gastropods and bivalves. It is not currently listed as endangered, but reef degradation impacts its natural population levels.
Similar Species
Chicoreus banksii (lacks the vibrant pink tips and has shorter spines) and Chicoreus saulii (which has more orange-toned spines and different banding).
Beach Finding Tips
Rarely found intact on the beach due to the fragility of the spines. To find this species, one usually needs to scuba dive or snorkel in coral rubble areas or purchase from local fishermen in the Indo-Pacific who bring them up in nets.