Broad Atlantic Augur (alternate: Gray Augur)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Terebridae, Genus: Hastula, Species: Hastula hastata · Terebridae (Augur or Pencil shells) · Gastropod; whole shell; high-spired/elongate conical shape
Species
Hastula hastata (identifiable by typical silhouette, approximately 85% confidence due to photo blurriness)
Shell Type
Gastropod; whole shell; high-spired/elongate conical shape
Family
Terebridae (Augur or Pencil shells)
Size
Estimated 10-25mm (0.4-1.0 inch); this is a small species, and the specimen appears to be an average adult or sub-adult.
Color & Pattern
Base color appears creamy white to light gray with darker vertical banding or axial streaks. The patterns are somewhat muted, which is common for beach-worn specimens of this species.
Rarity
Common; frequently found on sandy beaches throughout its range by sharp-eyed collectors.
Habitat
Intertidal and shallow subtidal zones; usually found buried in clean sand near the water's edge on high-energy beaches.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic: Florida, the Caribbean, and south to Brazil.
Description
A slender, glossy, needle-like shell featuring a high spire and numerous whorls. The surface is smooth with fine axial ribs that are most prominent near the sutures. The aperture is small and oval-shaped.
Key Features
Distinguished by its high spire, glossy texture, and neat vertical ribs near the top of each whorl. Unlike larger Terebra, Hastula species are typically smaller and more polished.
Collector Value
Minimal financial value ($1-$3); however, it is a lovely addition to a 'micro-shell' collection or for beginner Caribbean shell enthusiasts.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears beach-worn with softened detail and moderate blurring from the image quality. Overall condition: Fair to Good.
Interesting Facts
The animals are carnivorous sand-dwellers that hunt small worms using a specialized radula that, in some related species, acts like a venomous harpoon.
Ecological Role
Predatory gastropod that helps regulate populations of polychaete worms in sandy beach ecosystems. Not currently a protected species.
Similar Species
Terebra dislocata (Atlantic Augur) which is larger and has a distinct spiral band; and Hastula salleana which is often darker gray.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the 'wash zone' just as the tide is receding. They are often uncovered by the motion of the waves and quickly re-bury themselves in the sand.