Bleeding Tooth Nerite (also known as the Red-toothed Nerite)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Plicopurpura, Species: Plicopurpura patula · Muricidae (Murex family and rock snails) · Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Plicopurpura patula
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Muricidae (Murex family and rock snails)
Size
Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches each, which is typical for juvenile to mid-sized specimens of this species; adults can reach up to 2 inches.
Color & Pattern
Striking patterned combination of milky white base with rich reddish-brown to chestnut blotches, stripes, and zigzag markings, accented by prominent white varices or nodules.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically found clinging firmly to rocky shores, limestone cliffs, and wave-swept intertidal rocks.
Geographic Range
Tropical and subtropical Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, southern Florida, and extending down to Brazil.
Description
These are robust, heavy, low-spired gastropod shells featuring a broad body whorl, a short spire, and distinct nodular or spiny sculptural ridges. The surface is adorned with a striking contrast of deep brown patterns over a bright white background. The aperture is wide, and the outer lip is thickened, displaying the characteristic purple-stained interior typical of this group.
Key Features
Low spire, broad body whorl, prominent rounded white knobs or varices, heavy shell structure, and a distinct purplish or dark interior aperture margin.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. While common in their natural habitat, they are popular among beachcombers and casual collectors due to their vibrant high-contrast patterns and sturdy build.
Condition Notes
Good to Fine condition. The shells show bright, natural coloration with minimal fading, intact structures, and only slight natural wear on the spire tips from wave action.
Interesting Facts
Members of this genus are famous for producing a secretion that yields a rich purple dye, historically used by indigenous peoples of the Americas to dye textiles in a process similar to the Tyrian purple of the Mediterranean.
Ecological Role
Carnivorous predators that feed on barnacles and other sessile intertidal organisms, helping to control local prey populations on rocky shores.
Similar Species
Purpura persica or other rock-dwelling muricids, which can be distinguished by differences in aperture shape, columellar folds, and precise geographical distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky intertidal zones, particularly around limestone outcroppings and tide pools at low tide. Searching the wrack line after storms can also yield washed-up specimens.