Cloth of Gold Cones, Textile Cone (Conus textile)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Conidae, Genus: Conus, Species: Conus textile · Conidae (Cone snail family) · Gastropod, whole shell, cone-shaped
Species
Conus textile
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, cone-shaped
Family
Conidae (Cone snail family)
Size
Approximately 3.5 inches, which is within the normal adult size range of 2 to 6 inches for this species.
Color & Pattern
Intricate tent-like or zig-zag patterns of dark brown or golden lines over a white or cream background, featuring distinctive triangular white tent markings and a bright orange-brown anterior tip (siphonal canal).
Rarity
Common in its native range, though finding a specimen in pristine condition requires searching in appropriate marine habitats.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, typically found on coral reefs, sand flats, and under rocks or inside crevices, in marine environments.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa across the Indian Ocean to Polynesia and the Hawaiian Islands.
Description
A stunning and classic cone shell featuring a smooth, glossy, cylindrical-conical body whorl. The exterior is adorned with a mesmerizing tent-like pattern resembling fine lacework or hieroglyphics. The spire is low with a stepped profile, and the aperture is narrow and elongated, designed to house the animal and its specialized venomous radular tooth.
Key Features
Distinguished by its tented or tentacles pattern of brown markings over a light background, low stepped spire, and vibrant orange or yellowish-brown anterior tip. Highly venomous species.
Collector Value
Very popular among shell collectors worldwide due to its striking geometric pattern and historical significance, though common specimens are relatively affordable.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in Fine to Gem condition with vibrant, glossy natural coloration intact and no major chips or structural damage.
Interesting Facts
Conus textile is one of the most venomous cone snails. Its modified radular tooth acts as a harpoon loaded with a complex neurotoxin cocktail (conotoxins) capable of subduing prey and posing a fatal danger to humans.
Ecological Role
Carnivorous apex predator on the reef, feeding primarily on other marine snails and small fish using a specialized harpoon-like venom apparatus. Populations are generally stable, but handling live animals carries severe medical risks.
Similar Species
Conus aulicus (Amory's Cone) and Conus gloriamaris (Glory of the Seas Cone), which can be differentiated by subtle variations in patterning and spire structure.
Beach Finding Tips
Best found by snorkeling or scuba diving in shallow reef flats and under coral rubble at low tide, though live specimens should never be handled bare-handed due to extreme venom toxicity.