Pilsbry's Drupe or Mulberry Drupe (also known as Morula or Thais-like rock shell)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, Family: Muricidae, Genus: Morula, Species: Morula uva · Muricidae (Murex and Rock Snail family) · Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Morula uva
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Muricidae (Murex and Rock Snail family)
Size
Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range between 0.8 and 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Predominantly weathered white with faint bluish-grey to dark charcoal patches showing through from underlying layers. The natural bright coloration has been heavily worn and sun-bleached due to beach exposure, revealing a chalky exterior and a smooth yellowish-cream aperture interior.
Rarity
Common in appropriate rocky habitats, though finding a whole, well-preserved specimen can require some searching.
Habitat
Found in shallow intertidal zones, particularly on rocky shores, coral reef flats, and wave-swept benches where they hide in crevices and under rocks.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, spanning from East Africa and the Red Sea across to Polynesia and Hawaii, including Hukilau Beach in Laie, Oahu.
Description
A sturdy, heavy rock-dwelling gastropod featuring a low spire, distinct spiral ridges, and characteristic nodular sculptural bumps. The outer lip is thickened and heavily toothed on the interior, a classic defensive adaptation for predatory marine snails living in high-energy surf zones.
Key Features
Heavy, thick shell structure, compact oval-to-spiral profile, heavily nodulose or beaded spiral cords, and a toothed outer lip framing a narrow aperture.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, mostly valued by local beachcombers and specialized Murex collectors. Specimens with pristine color patterns and fresh periostracum command higher interest than beach-worn samples.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The shell is structurally intact and retains its distinctive sculptural form and thickened outer lip, but shows significant surf-wear, loss of original dark coloration, and extensive sun-bleaching.
Interesting Facts
Like many members of the Muricidae family, Morula species are voracious carnivorous predators that drill holes into the shells of other mollusks or pry open bivalves to feed using a specialized radula and acidic secretions.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active carnivorous predator in the intertidal food web, helping to regulate barnacle, limpet, and small bivalve populations. Not currently endangered or heavily regulated.
Similar Species
Other rock-dwelling muricids such as Drupella or Thais species, which can be distinguished by differences in spine arrangements, tooth patterns on the outer lip, and overall elongation.
Beach Finding Tips
Search rocky intertidal benches, tide pools, and shell drift lines immediately following high surf or storms, particularly around rocky shelves and reef flats.
Notes
Found Hukilau Beach