Chestnut Latirus
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Fasciolariidae, Genus: Polygona, Species: Polygona infundibulum · Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Spindle shells) · Gastropod (univalve); Spiral/Fusiform shape; This specimen appears to be a worn fragment of the main body and spire.
Species
Polygona infundibulum (confidence level: high, based on spindle shape and ribbing)
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve); Spiral/Fusiform shape; This specimen appears to be a worn fragment of the main body and spire.
Family
Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Spindle shells)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1.25 inches based on the background texture. Typical adults reach 1.5 to 3.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Faint salmon-pink to light brown bands on a creamy white base. The colors appear significantly sun-bleached and water-worn, dulling the natural deep chestnut brown typical of the species.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon; though the species is widely distributed, intact specimens with bright coloration are harder to find beachcombing than worn fragments.
Habitat
Marine; typically found in shallow to moderately deep water (subtidal), often associated with coral reef rubble or rocky substrates within seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, specifically Florida, the Caribbean, and south to Brazil.
Description
A fusiform (spindle-shaped) shell characterized by strong axial ribs and fine spiral cords. This specific specimen shows the characteristic heavy longitudinal ridges, though the elongated siphonal canal typical of the genus has been broken off through wave action.
Key Features
Robust axial ribs, brownish-orange banding, and a distinctive 'spindle' silhouette. The aperture usually features small folds or plicae on the columella, characteristic of the Fasciolariidae family.
Collector Value
Very low ($1-$2) due to the heavy erosion and breakage. Gem quality specimens with intact canals and dark coloring can fetch $10-$20.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair; the shell is a beach-worn fragment. It lacks the siphonal canal and the apex is eroded. The outer lip is broken, and most of the periostracum is gone. Low collectibility except as a reference study piece.
Interesting Facts
The animal inside is a carnivore that preys on other mollusks and barnacles. Unlike many gastropods that have a thin operculum, the Latirus has a thick, claw-like operculum to protect itself from predators.
Ecological Role
Predatory marine snail. It helps regulate populations of smaller invertebrates. It is not currently protected, but live-shelling is regulated or banned in many Florida and Caribbean parks.
Similar Species
Leucozonia nassa (Chevron Latirus) which is more globose/rounded, or Pustulatirus varianus which has more distinct nodules.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the 'wrack line' after a storm or near rocky outcroppings at low tide. They are often tucked into crevices or under limestone fragments.