Polinices Shell (Necklace Shell, Moon Snail)
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Littorinimorpha, Family Naticidae, Genus Polinices, Species Polinices albumen · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod univalve with a globose to oval spiral shape
Species
Polinices albumen (or similar Polinices species)
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve with a globose to oval spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 15-20 mm, which is relatively small and likely a juvenile or a smaller species within the family. Adults of larger moon snails can range up to several inches.
Color & Pattern
Soft beige to cream base color with a warm golden or orange-brown interior (aperture). The exterior appears slightly sun-bleached and worn, typical of drift shells found on beaches.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Inhabits sandy bottoms and intertidal to shallow subtidal zones where they burrow beneath the sand to hunt for bivalves. Marine environment.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, including the Hawaiian Islands (Oahu), common in tropical shallow coastal waters.
Description
A charming, small globose gastropod shell featuring a smooth exterior surface, low spire, and a rounded, semicircular aperture with a warm orange-toned interior. The absence of heavy ornamentation highlights its sleek, aerodynamic form adapted for burrowing in sand.
Key Features
Smooth, polished globose form, low spire, rounded aperture, and lack of prominent sculpture, diagnostic of the family Naticidae.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value. While not rare or expensive, moon snails are delightful additions to a study collection or shell craft project.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The shell is intact with nice inner coloration, though it shows some surface weathering and minor beach wear on the exterior.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are famous for drilling clean, bevel-edged holes into the shells of their bivalve prey using an acidic secretion and their radula. They also create distinct sand collars in which they lay their eggs.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active predatory carnivore in benthic marine ecosystems, helping to regulate bivalve populations.
Similar Species
Other members of Naticidae such as Neverita or Natica species, which can be distinguished by subtle differences in the umbilicus structure and callus.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy beaches at the wrack line or sift through shallow shoreline sand during low tide, especially after rough wave action.
Notes
Oahu