Grooved Morula, also known as the Mulberry Shell or Drupe
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Morula, Species: Morula granulata · Muricidae (Murex and Rock Shell family) · Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape with heavy nodulose sculpture
Species
Morula granulata
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape with heavy nodulose sculpture
Family
Muricidae (Murex and Rock Shell family)
Size
Approximately 1.0 to 1.5 inches in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.8 to 1.8 inches.
Color & Pattern
Dark chocolate brown to nearly black base coloration with contrasting white or cream-colored patches on the prominent nodules, creating a textured, mottled appearance. The interior aperture is purplish-white.
Rarity
Common, frequently encountered by beachcombers exploring rocky intertidal areas within its natural range.
Habitat
Found in intertidal zones, primarily clinging to rocky shores, coral reef flats, and tide pools where it is exposed to heavy wave action.
Geographic Range
Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from East Africa and the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, and the tropical islands of the Pacific, including Maluku.
Description
A sturdy, compact rock shell featuring a low spire and a strongly developed, wide body whorl. The exterior is heavily ornamented with rows of rounded, beaded nodules or tubercles, giving it a rough, mulberry-like texture. The outer lip is thickened and toothed on the interior, framing a narrow, purplish aperture and a short siphonal canal.
Key Features
Characterized by its heavy, robust build, rough nodulose cords, dark brown and white contrasting nodule coloration, and toothed outer lip typical of the genus Morula.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value. While widely available and affordable, it is a staple for intertidal and muricid specialist collections due to its striking contrast and sculptural form.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in Good to Fine condition with natural coloration intact, minor wear on the prominent nodules, and no major structural fractures.
Interesting Facts
Like many members of the Muricidae family, Morula granulata is a predatory carnivore that uses its radula and an accessory boring organ to drill through the shells of barnacles and other mollusks to feed.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important carnivorous predator in intertidal rocky shore ecosystems, helping to regulate barnacle and small mollusk populations. It serves as prey for larger fish and crustacean scavengers.
Similar Species
Morula uva (Grape Drupe), which tends to be more purple or violet with rounder nodules, and Drupella species, which are typically more elongated and narrower.
Beach Finding Tips
Search rocky shorelines, bench rock, and tide pools during extreme low tide. Turn over loose flat rocks or check crevices where these snails hide from strong surf and predators.
Notes
Maluku