Tulip Snail (often referred to as a Tulip Shell)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Fasciolariidae, Genus: Fasciolaria, Species: Fasciolaria hunteria · Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Horse Conch family) · Gastropod univalve, whole shell with spiral shape
Species
Fasciolaria hunteria (or related juvenile Fasciolaria species)
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve, whole shell with spiral shape
Family
Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Horse Conch family)
Size
Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches, which is small and indicates a juvenile or a smaller species like the Banded Tulip. Full-sized adults of related species can reach 4 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant orange to reddish-brown monochrome coloration with natural luster. The interior of the aperture matches the exterior tone.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Shallow subtidal waters, intertidal zones, sand flats, and seagrass beds in marine environments.
Geographic Range
Southeastern United States, including Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean.
Description
A charming, slender spiral shell featuring a high spire, well-defined whorls, a graceful elongated canal, and an oval aperture. The surface has a smooth yet subtly textured finish with classic spindle proportions.
Key Features
Slender fusiform shape, elongated anterior canal, elevated spire with distinct rounded whorls, and smooth outer lip.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, but highly appreciated by casual beachcombers and beginner shell collectors for their appealing color and form.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shell is intact with bright natural color and minimal wear, though it is likely a smaller specimen or juvenile.
Interesting Facts
Tulip snails are active carnivorous predators that hunt other snails and bivalves, often using their muscular foot to smother and drill into their prey.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important carnivorous predator controlling local gastropod and bivalve populations within shallow marine food webs.
Similar Species
Bandaded Tulip (Fasciolaria lilium) and True Tulip (Fasciolaria tulipa). Distinguished by size, exact shoulder angle, and presence or absence of spiral color lines.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy beaches and near seagrass beds in Florida and the Gulf Coast after strong onshore winds or low tides.