Brown Turban Snail or Checkered Turban (Alternate: Black Turban Snail)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Trochida, Family: Trochidae, Genus: Tegula, Species: Tegula funebralis · Trochidae (Top snails and turbans) · Gastropod univalve, whole spiral shell
Species
Tegula funebralis (or similar Tegula species)
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve, whole spiral shell
Family
Trochidae (Top snails and turbans)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1.25 inches in height and width, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Dark charcoal, purplish-black, or greenish-brown base coloration. Surface shows fine growth lines and occasional spiral ribbing. Worn areas near the apex reveal a pearly or lighter tan under-layer. Colors are natural but slightly weathered.
Rarity
Very Common
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically found clinging to rocks, rocky shores, tide pools, and kelp forests.
Geographic Range
Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska down to Baja California, Mexico.
Description
These are sturdy, conical marine snail shells with a low, rounded spire. The surface features subtle spiral striations and a solid, heavy structure designed to withstand crashing wave action in rocky intertidal zones. The dark, brooding coloration helps them camouflage against wet rocks and dark algae.
Key Features
Conical to globose shape, low spire, dark uniform coloration (often dark purple, black, or greenish), solid heavy weight relative to size, and lack of prominent spines or heavy nodes.
Collector Value
Low to Moderate. While very common and inexpensive, they are popular among beginner beachcombers and crafters due to their appealing dark luster and sturdy structure.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. Shells are intact with minor wear around the apex and tip, typical of intertidal specimens exposed to wave action and tumbling.
Interesting Facts
Tegula snails are herbivores that graze on microscopic algae and kelp. When detached from rocks, they often rely on their strong muscular foot to right themselves, and they are a primary food source for predatory sea stars and crabs.
Ecological Role
They play a vital role as primary grazers controlling algae populations on rocky shores, serving as an important link in the marine food web for various predators.
Similar Species
Other Tegula species such as Tegula brunnea (Brown Turban) and Tegula gallina (Speckled Turban), which can be distinguished by subtle color variations, umbilical characteristics, and geographic distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky shores, tide pools, and areas with heavy algae growth along the Pacific Northwest and Californian coasts, especially at low tide.