Tulip Shell (specifically the True Tulip)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Fasciolariidae, Genus: Fasciolaria, Species: F. tulipa · Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Spindle shells) · Gastropod (univalve); whole shell with a fusiform (spindle) shape.
Species
Fasciolaria tulipa (Confidence: 98%)
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve); whole shell with a fusiform (spindle) shape.
Family
Fasciolariidae (Tulip and Spindle shells)
Size
Approximately 4-5 inches in length. This is an average adult size; the species can reach up to 10 inches.
Color & Pattern
Base color is a creamy grey-white with distinct spiral banding. The pattern consists of interrupted dark reddish-brown longitudinal streaks and 'dashes' that follow the spiral ribs. The interior aperture is typically a glossy peach or light orange.
Rarity
Common; frequently found after storms or during low tides in Florida and the Caribbean.
Habitat
Marine; found in shallow water in seagrass beds, sand flats, and coral reef lagoons (intertidal to about 30 feet deep).
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic; ranging from North Carolina through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and south to Brazil.
Description
An elegant, spindle-shaped shell with a smooth, glossy texture despite its visible spiral ridges. The shell features several rounded whorls and a moderately high spire. The surface is decorated with characteristic brown dapples. The outer lip is thin and the canal is relatively long and straight.
Key Features
Distinguished by its smooth surface (unlike the Banded Tulip which has more pronounced ridges) and the pattern of thin, dark spiral lines that look like Morse code or dashes.
Collector Value
Modest ($5 - $15 USD). It is a staple of beginner collections due to its beauty and availability. Large, 'gem' quality specimens with perfect tips are more desirable.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the apex (tip) appears slightly blunted and there is minor calcium buildup or wear on the spire, but the main body whorl shows excellent color retention and pattern. No major cracks visible.
Interesting Facts
The Tulip Shell is a predatory marine snail. It is famously aggressive and will eat other mollusks, including other Tulip shells and Queen Conchs. They are known for their high speed relative to other snails.
Ecological Role
High-level predator in sand and grass ecosystems; helps regulate the populations of other gastropods and bivalves. Currently not a protected species but collection of live specimens is regulated in many Florida counties.
Similar Species
Banded Tulip (Cinctura hunteria), which is smaller and has fewer, but much darker and more continuous, spiral lines.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in 'wash-ins' after a strong tide or storm. They are most easily found by snorkeling over seagrass beds where they hunt for prey.