Apple Murex (also known as the Florida Rock Murex or Pitted Murex)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Phyllonotus, Species: Phyllonotus pomum · Muricidae (Murex family / Rock shells) · Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape with prominent varices and spines
Species
Phyllonotus pomum
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape with prominent varices and spines
Family
Muricidae (Murex family / Rock shells)
Size
Approximately 2.5 inches in length. Adults typically range from 2 to 4 inches, making this a medium-sized, average specimen for the species.
Color & Pattern
Rich earthy tones of brown, tan, and creamy white arranged in spiral bands. The interior of the oval aperture is smooth and glossy porcelain white with a slight pinkish or orange tint on the columella. Colors are natural and well-preserved.
Rarity
Common, frequently found by beachcombers and divers throughout its range, especially after storms.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal waters to moderate depths, typically found on sandy bottoms, coral rubble, rocky areas, and seagrass beds from the low tide line down to about 150 feet. Fully marine species.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina (including southern shores NC) and Florida, through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and down to northern South America.
Description
A robust, highly sculpted gastropod shell featuring three prominent varices per whorl adorned with frilly, blunt spines and laminate folds. The surface is textured with rough spiral cords and fine growth lines. It has a well-developed, rounded body whorl, a moderately high spire, and a distinct, open siphonal canal.
Key Features
Three prominent varices per whorl with frilly, blunt projections; rough spiral ribbing; a rounded aperture with a toothed outer lip; and a short, partially closed siphonal canal.
Collector Value
Moderately collectible and popular among casual shell enthusiasts and decorator markets. Common specimens typically sell for a few dollars, though large, pristine specimens with exceptional color or frills command higher interest. Commonly found in shell shops.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shell is structurally intact with minimal wear on the spines, excellent natural coloration, and a clean white aperture. Graded as Fine collectible condition.
Interesting Facts
Murex snails are predatory carnivores that feed on bivalves and other gastropods by drilling a hole in their prey's shell or forcing the valves open. Historically, members of the Muricidae family were used to produce the famous Tyrian purple dye prized by ancient civilizations.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important carnivorous predator controlling bivalve populations in benthic communities. Empty shells serve as critical mobile homes for hermit crabs. Not currently endangered or heavily regulated.
Similar Species
Pilsbry's Murex (Phyllonotus pilsbryi) and the Apple Murex can be very similar; however, P. pomum typically features distinct spiral cord coloration and specific spine arrangements compared to other Western Atlantic muricids.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along southern North Carolina beaches and barrier islands following rough seas, winter storms, or extreme low tides. Check shell lines deposited by high surf where heavy, structured shells accumulate.
Notes
Southern shores nc