Cloth of Gold Cone (also known as the Textile Cone)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Conidae, Genus: Conus, Species: Conus textile · Conidae (Cone Snail family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, cone-shaped
Species
Conus textile
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, cone-shaped
Family
Conidae (Cone Snail family)
Size
Approximately 3.5 inches, which is slightly above average. Adults typically range from 2 to 5 inches (50 to 125 mm).
Color & Pattern
Stunning tented pattern consisting of white triangular or tent-like spots bordered by a fine, intricate web of dark brown or golden-brown lines and tent-like markings. The exterior exhibits a glossy finish with vibrant natural colors, while the narrow aperture reveals a white or pale interior.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon, though heavily sought after by collectors.
Habitat
Found in shallow tropical waters, typically dwelling in intertidal and subtidal zones down to about 50 meters. Prefers sandy substrates, coral reefs, under coral rubble, and within lagoons or seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa across the Indian Ocean to Polynesia and the Hawaiian Islands, as well as northern Australia.
Description
A classic, heavy, and solid cone shell featuring a low spire with rounded, tuberculated whorls. The body whorl is smooth with a slightly convex outline that tapers gracefully toward the anterior end. Its signature intricate tent pattern resembles fine lace or a rich tapestry, making it one of the most visually captivating marine shells.
Key Features
Low spire, smooth glossy surface, and a very distinct tented pattern formed by interconnected dark reticulations enclosing white tent-like triangles. The aperture is long and narrow.
Collector Value
Highly desirable and a staple in advanced shell collections due to its striking geometry and historical popularity. Valued from $10 to $50 USD depending on size, exact pattern variation, and locality data.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in Fine to Gem condition, mostly intact with vivid, unfaded coloration and good gloss, though showing minor natural growth imperfections near the shoulder and spire.
Interesting Facts
The Cloth of Gold Cone is a venomous predatory snail that uses a modified radular tooth like a harpoon to inject a potent neurotoxin (conotoxin) to paralyze prey, usually small fish. Live specimens should be handled with extreme caution as stings can be fatal to humans.
Ecological Role
Acts as an apex invertebrate predator in coral reef ecosystems, helping regulate small fish and mollusk populations. While the species is not currently endangered, many cone snail habitats face threats from coastal development and climate change.
Similar Species
Conus archiepiscopus (Bishop's Cone) and Conus gloriamaris (Glory of the Seas), which differ in subtle patterning details, spire height, and geographic distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in tropical Indo-Pacific regions during extreme low tides, carefully flipping over flat rocks, coral slabs, and searching sandy pockets in reef flats. Always wear thick gloves and avoid handling live animals.