Checkered Periwinkle or Turban Snail
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Trochida, Family: Trochidae, Genus: Tegula, Species: Tegula funebralis · Trochidae (Top snail family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Tegula funebralis (or similar turbinid/trochid species)
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Trochidae (Top snail family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch in diameter, which is typical for this species range of 0.5 to 1.25 inches.
Color & Pattern
Dark brownish-black base color with subtle lighter banding or mottled white spots along the whorls. The interior aperture is smooth, pearly white, and reflective with a dark opening.
Rarity
Very Common
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically found clinging to rocky shores, tide pools, and protected rocky substrates.
Geographic Range
Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska down to Baja California, Mexico.
Description
A sturdy, globular to conical marine snail shell with a low spired profile and strong spiral sculpture. The outer surface is dark and weathered, featuring a smooth yet textured appearance due to natural growth lines, while the interior reveals a lustrous, nacreous white finish.
Key Features
Rounded globular shape, dark exterior coloration, low spire, and a pearly white nacreous interior aperture without a prominent siphonal canal.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. While very common and inexpensive, they are popular in educational collections and coastal crafts.
Condition Notes
Good condition whole shell with minor natural weathering on the exterior surface. The aperture is intact and the nacreous interior remains bright. Collectibility grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
These snails are active grazers that scrape microalgae off rocks using a specialized ribbon-like tongue called a radula. They play a vital role in keeping rocky shorelines clear of excessive algae growth.
Ecological Role
Primary consumers acting as vital grazers of microalgae and diatoms on rocky shores, serving as an important food source for crabs, sea stars, and shorebirds.
Similar Species
Other members of the Trochidae family, such as Chlorostoma species, which can be distinguished by specific columella teeth and geographic distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along rocky intertidal shores, tide pools, and drift lines during low tide along the Pacific Northwest and Californian coasts.