Apple Murex (also known as the Apple Rock Murex)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Phyllonotus, Species: Phyllonotus pomum · Muricidae (Murex family / Rock shells) · Gastropod univalve, whole shell with spiral shape
Species
Phyllonotus pomum
Shell Type
Gastropod univalve, whole shell with spiral shape
Family
Muricidae (Murex family / Rock shells)
Size
Approximately 2.5 to 3 inches, which is on the smaller side for this species. Adults typically range from 2 to 5 inches in length.
Color & Pattern
Base color is off-white to cream with distinct brownish-orange bands and patches, particularly visible around the aperture and outer lip. The coloration appears natural with some moderate weathering.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Found in shallow marine waters, typically from the intertidal zone down to about 50 meters, inhabiting sandy substrates, mudflats, and coral rubble areas.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and down to northern South America.
Description
A sturdy, rough-textured gastropod featuring prominent rounded knobs, axial ridges, and frilly varices. It has a high-spired profile, a distinct rounded aperture with a toothed outer lip, and a short, partially open siphonal canal.
Key Features
Distinctive rounded, heavy nodular sculpture, prominent varices, and a rounded aperture with a thickened, denticulate outer lip.
Collector Value
Moderately collectible and commonly found in shell shops. Specimen value typically ranges from a few dollars to $15 depending on exact size and pristine color.
Condition Notes
Good condition with intact structure and some original color patterns. Minor weathering and worn knobs are visible, placing it in the Good to Fair collector grade.
Interesting Facts
Like other murex snails, Phyllonotus pomum is a carnivorous predator that drills into the shells of bivalves or forces them open to feed on the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active marine carnivore helping regulate bivalve populations, while serving as a food source for larger marine predators like fish and crustaceans.
Similar Species
Apple Murex can be confused with the West Indian Murex (Phyllonotus pomatus) or the Pink-lipped Murex (Vokesimurex cornutus), but differs in its more rounded, apple-like silhouette and specific nodule placement.
Beach Finding Tips
Best found by beachcombing after strong storms or winter cold fronts along Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean beaches, particularly around low tide near shell lines.