Shark Eye (also known as the Northern Moon Snail or Atlantic Moon Snail)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Littorinimorpha, Family: Naticidae, Genus: Neverita, Species: Neverita duplicata · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, globular to slightly depressed spiral shape
Species
Neverita duplicata
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, globular to slightly depressed spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in diameter, which indicates a juvenile or smaller specimen. Adult species typically range from 2 to 3.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Glossy, warm golden-brown to tan coloration with subtle, lighter flame-like streaks radiating from the low-set spire. The apex is whitish, and the natural porcelain-like sheen is well-preserved.
Rarity
Common, frequently found by beachcombers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically found burrowing just beneath the surface in intertidal and subtidal sandy sand flats and mudflats.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Massachusetts south to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Description
A smooth, highly polished, globular shell featuring a low, flat spire and a rapidly expanding body whorl. The surface is porcelain-like with a tactile smoothness and an attractive honey-gold hue. The aperture is wide and semi-lunar, typical of predatory moon snails.
Key Features
Low, nearly flush spire, globular body whorl, smooth and glossy texture, and characteristic warm brownish-tan coloration without complex patterning.
Collector Value
Low collector value due to abundance, though prized by casual beachcombers for their aesthetic beauty, smooth feel, and glossy finish. Typically worth a few dollars or valued as a keepsake.
Condition Notes
Gem condition. The shell is intact, highly glossy, free of major chips, fractures, or boring marks, retaining its natural luster and rich color.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are famous predatory carnivores that drill perfectly round, countersunk holes into the shells of other bivalves using an acidic secretion and a rasping radula before consuming them.
Ecological Role
Acts as a primary carnivorous predator in soft-bottom marine ecosystems, helping to regulate bivalve populations. They serve as food sources for various fish, birds, and larger marine predators.
Similar Species
Neverita lewisii (Lewis's Moon Snail, which is larger and paler) and Euspira heros (Northern Moon Snail, which has a more elevated spire).
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy ocean beaches and sandbars at low tide, especially after storms or heavy wave action. Search the damp intertidal zone where exposed sand hummocks indicate burrowing activity.