Textile Cone, also known as the Cloth-of-Gold Conus
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Conidae, Genus: Conus, Species: Conus textile · Conidae (Cone snail family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, cone-shaped with a low spire
Species
Conus textile
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, cone-shaped with a low spire
Family
Conidae (Cone snail family)
Size
Approximately 2.5 inches in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 1.5 to 4 inches.
Color & Pattern
Intricate tent-like or reticulated pattern of brown and white markings resembling woven textile fabric. The base color is white or cream, overlaid with rich brown triangles, blotches, and zigzag lines forming a tent pattern.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Shallow tropical marine waters, typically found in intertidal to subtidal zones down to about 50 meters. Prefers sandy substrates, coral reef platforms, and under rocks or inside crevices.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa across the Indian Ocean to Polynesia and Australia.
Description
A classic cone shell featuring a smooth, polished, tapering cylindrical shape with a low spire and a narrow, long aperture running nearly the entire length of the shell. The surface displays a mesmerizing, intricate network of brown tent-like markings resembling fine lace or textile weaving.
Key Features
Inverted cone shape, low flattened spire, narrow aperture, and the distinctive tent-like or reticulated brown and white pattern that gives the species its common name.
Collector Value
Moderately high demand among shell collectors due to its striking geometric pattern and historical popularity. Common specimens are affordable, but large, gem-grade color variants command higher prices.
Condition Notes
Fine condition with good retention of the natural glossy finish and vibrant tent pattern. Minimal wear on the apex and outer lip. No major fractures or boring holes.
Interesting Facts
The Textile Cone is a venomous predatory sea snail that uses a modified radular tooth like a harpoon to inject potent neurotoxins (conotoxins) into its prey, mainly other fish. Live specimens should be handled with extreme caution as their sting can be fatal to humans.
Ecological Role
Acts as a specialized nocturnal carnivore helping to regulate reef fish populations. Like all cone snails, it plays a vital role in marine biodiversity, though caution is required due to its venom.
Similar Species
Conus glorus (Glorious Cone) and Conus aulicus (Princely Cone). These can be distinguished by subtle differences in the tent patterns, spire height, and background color bands.
Beach Finding Tips
Best found by snorkeling or scuba diving around coral reefs and sand flats during low tide. Empty shells can occasionally be washed up on tropical beaches or found inhabited by hermit crabs.