Textile Cone, also known as the Cloth-of-Gold Cone
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Conidae, Genus: Conus, Species: Conus textile · Conidae (Cone snail family) · Gastropod, whole shell, cone-shaped
Species
Conus textile
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, cone-shaped
Family
Conidae (Cone snail family)
Size
Approximately 3 to 4 inches in length, which is average for an adult of this species. Adults typically range from 2 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Intricate tent-like or net-like pattern of dark brown or reddish-brown markings over a white or pale cream background, resembling woven fabric. The surface is smooth with fine growth lines.
Rarity
Common, frequently found in appropriate tropical reef environments.
Habitat
Found in tropical marine waters, typically in shallow subtidal zones, coral reefs, sand pockets, and under coral rubble.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa across to Polynesia and Hawaii.
Description
An elegant and classic cone shell featuring a smooth, tapering silhouette. The pattern consists of a complex network of triangular white tents enclosed by rich brown bands and tentacles, creating a textile-like appearance. The spire is low and coronated with subtle tubercles.
Key Features
Smooth, conical shape, low spire, and a distinctive tent-like or reticulated brown and white color pattern resembling a textile weave.
Collector Value
Moderately high desirability among shell collectors due to its classic beauty and striking pattern, though common. Valued from $5 to $25 depending on size and exact color variations.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition with natural coloration well-preserved. Minor wear at the apex and anterior tip, graded as a Fine specimen.
Interesting Facts
Conus textile is a predatory marine snail equipped with a venomous harpoon-like radular tooth used to capture prey. Its venom contains conotoxins, which are of significant medical research interest. It is also known historically as one of the few cone snails capable of delivering a sting fatal to humans.
Ecological Role
Carnivorous apex predator in micro-habitats, feeding primarily on other marine snails and small fish. Plays a crucial role in maintaining reef biodiversity.
Similar Species
Conus aulicus (Glory of the Royal Court) and Conus archiepiscopus, which can be distinguished by differences in the tenting pattern and broader color zones.
Beach Finding Tips
Search by snorkeling or scuba diving around shallow coral reefs, turning over rocks and checking sandy pockets at low tide. Live specimens should be handled with extreme caution or observed without touching.