Zebra Nerite / Banded Nerite (also known as the Ornate Nerite)
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Cycloneritida, Family Neritidae, Genus Nerita, Species Nerita ornata · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Nerita ornata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch in length and width, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.5 to 1.2 inches.
Color & Pattern
Featuring distinct, high-contrast horizontal banding patterns of dark reddish-brown to black stripes alternating with creamy white or yellowish bands. The colors are natural and vibrant with a glossy finish on the body whorl.
Rarity
Common, frequently found by dedicated beachcombers and locals exploring the rocky intertidal zones of Central America.
Habitat
Interspecific marine and brackish environments, typically found on rocky shores, intertidal boulder fields, and mangrove roots where they graze on algae.
Geographic Range
Eastern Pacific coastline, specifically ranging from the Gulf of California down through Central America, including Costa Rica (Guanacaste region), to Peru.
Description
A striking and robust marine snail shell characterized by its compact, rounded-conical shape with a low spire and a thick, sturdy outer lip. The exterior showcases eye-catching contrasting spiral bands. The aperture is wide with a denticulate inner lip containing small teeth.
Key Features
Distinctive spiral banding of dark brown and white, low rounded spire, heavily calcified and thick structure, and a toothed inner lip (denticles on the columella).
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, but highly desirable as a keepsake for beachcombers visiting the Pacific coast of Central America, such as Costa Rica.
Condition Notes
Intact whole shell in fine condition. Colors are well-preserved with minimal fading and no major structural fractures or predator boring holes.
Interesting Facts
Nerites are famous for their remarkable hardiness, capable of surviving out of water for extended periods by sealing their operculum tightly to retain moisture during low tide.
Ecological Role
Plays an important ecological role as an algal grazer, helping to control microalgae populations on rocky substrates and serving as a food source for coastal predators.
Similar Species
Nerita scabricosta (Plicate Nerite), which features strong vertical ridges rather than smooth spiral banding.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky intertidal zones, boulder-strewn beaches, and around tide pools during low tide, particularly in regions like Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Notes
Guanacaste conchal Costa Rica