Calico Scallop (or alternate, Pearly-toothed rock shell/Drupa species, though closely matching a small muricid or coralline dwelling snail like a rock shell or drupe snail)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Morula, Species: Morula granulata · Muricidae (Murex and Rock Shell family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Drupa morum or Morula granulata (Granular Drupe / Mulberry Shell)
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Muricidae (Murex and Rock Shell family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch (25mm), which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Cream to off-white base with prominent dark brown to black spiral cords and nodular ridges. Displays reddish-pink patches near the apex and suture areas. The colors appear natural with some slight weathering.
Rarity
Common (found regularly on rocky shores and reefs within its natural range)
Habitat
Found in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically on rocky shores, intertidal benches, and coral reef flats where they cling strongly to rocks.
Geographic Range
Indo-West Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa across to Polynesia and Hawaii.
Description
A sturdy, compact marine snail shell featuring strong spiral cords adorned with rows of rounded granules or nodules. The spire is relatively low, and the body whorl is robust, designed to withstand crashing waves in high-energy intertidal rocky environments.
Key Features
Heavy, thick shell structure with prominent beaded spiral cords (granules), a low spire, and a narrow aperture with tooth-like projections on the outer lip.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value. While widely collected as a common representative of the Muricidae family, it is typically valued more as a study or educational specimen rather than a high-end collector piece. Usually worth a few dollars.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The shell is intact with natural coloration largely preserved, minor surface wear appropriate for an intertidal beach or reef find. Collectibility grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
Members of the family Muricidae are active predatory carnivores that drill holes into the shells of other mollusks or force bivalve shells open to feed on the soft tissue inside using a specialized radula and accessory boring organ.
Ecological Role
Functions as a carnivorous predator in intertidal rocky ecosystems, helping to regulate barnacle and small mollusk populations. Serves as a food source for larger fish, crabs, and shorebirds.
Similar Species
Drupa ricinus (Soap-dish Drupe) and other Morula species, which can be distinguished by specific spine arrangements, aperture coloration, and nodule distribution patterns.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky intertidal zones, tide pools, and coral rubble beaches at low tide. Inspect crevices and under rocks where these snails hide from strong wave action and predators.