Rock Murex (also known as Apple Murex or Rose-branch Murex)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Phyllonotus, Species: Phyllonotus pomum · Muricidae (Murex family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Phyllonotus pomum
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Muricidae (Murex family)
Size
Approximately 3 inches in length and width, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 2 to 5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Muted off-white or cream base with weathered pinkish-purple flushes around the aperture and spiral ridges. The colors appear slightly sun-bleached and worn due to marine exposure.
Rarity
Common, frequently found by beachcombers and divers within its natural range.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, typically found on sandy bottoms, rocky reefs, oyster beds, and seagrass flats. Marine species.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and down to northern South America and Brazil.
Description
A rugged and robust gastropod shell featuring prominent spiral cords, rough axial ridges, and a heavily frilled, rounded aperture. The outer lip is thickened and toothed internally, characteristic of mature predatory snails. The overall texture is coarse and weathered.
Key Features
Rounded, globular body whorl; prominent axial varices with rough frills or knobs; oval-shaped aperture with a toothed outer lip; and a short, stout anterior canal.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. While widely collected and common in shell shops, specimens with pristine color and intact spines are more desirable. Typical value ranges from a few dollars to $15 depending on condition.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; the shell shows clear signs of weathering, minor chipping along the outer lip, and surface wear with fading of original vibrant colors, grading as Good for a beach find.
Interesting Facts
Murex snails are predatory carnivores that feed on bivalves and other gastropods by drilling holes in their prey's shells or prying them open. Historically, certain members of the Muricidae family were used to produce highly prized purple dye for royalty.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important carnivorous predator controlling bivalve and barnacle populations in benthic communities. Their empty shells frequently provide secondary homes for hermit crabs.
Similar Species
Apple Murex can be confused with the West Indian Murex (Phyllonotus margaritensis) or Chicoreus species, but is distinguished by its rounder aperture and specific variceal ornamentation.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along drift lines on sandy and shell-rich beaches following storms or rough seas. Low tide during early morning hours yields the best results.