Shark's Eye, Moon Snail
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Naticidae, Genus: Neverita, Species: Neverita duplicata · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, globular spiral shape
Species
Neverita duplicata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, globular spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch, which is on the smaller side for this species. Adults typically range from 1 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Uniform off-white to pale tan coloration with a sun-bleached appearance, lacking the typical darker brown umbilicus or purple-brown base due to wear. The surface is smooth and matte.
Rarity
Very Common
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, buried beneath sandy or muddy substrates in marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts down to the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, and Brazil.
Description
A compact, globular, and sturdy univalve shell with a low spire and smooth exterior. The aperture is wide and semi-circular, characteristic of predatory moon snails. While worn, its heavy porcelain-like internal structure remains evident.
Key Features
Rounded globular shape, low spire, smooth polished surface, and a covered or partially filled umbilicus depending on wear.
Collector Value
Low collectible value due to commonness and worn condition. Usually collected as casual beach mementos rather than traded specimens.
Condition Notes
Worn and heavily sun-bleached with loss of original glossy finish and distinct color bands. Classified as a Fair condition beach find.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails drill smooth, bevel-edged holes into the shells of other bivalves to consume them using a specialized radula and acidic secretions.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active carnivorous predator in soft-bottom marine benthic ecosystems, helping control bivalve populations.
Similar Species
Atlantic Moon Snail (Euspira lewisii) and other Naticidae species, distinguished by size, umbilicus structure, and color markings.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy beaches during low tide, particularly after storms or heavy wave action when buried shells are churned up.