Shark Eye (Moon Snail)
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Littorinimorpha, Family Naticidae, Genus Neverita, Species Neverita duplicata · Naticidae (Moon Snail family) · Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Species
Neverita duplicata
Shell Type
Gastropod (snail/univalve), whole shell, spiral shape
Family
Naticidae (Moon Snail family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in diameter, which is on the smaller side. Adults typically range from 1.5 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Smooth, glossy surface with a grayish-brown or tan base color, featuring a dark brown or purplish umbilicus area (the 'eye') with a distinctive orange-brown ring surrounding the inner core.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, buried beneath sandy ocean bottoms where they hunt for bivalve prey.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic coast from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico and Brazil.
Description
A smooth, globose, and sturdy marine snail shell with a low spire and a large, rounded body whorl. The surface is polished and glossy, showing natural earthy tones with a striking dark umbilicus that gives it the common name 'Shark Eye'.
Key Features
Globular shape, low spire, smooth polished exterior, and a prominent darkened callus or umbilicus that partially or fully fills the central opening.
Collector Value
Very affordable and common, typically valued at a few cents to a couple of dollars. Popular among beginning beachcombers rather than advanced collectors.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be intact and in good condition with a smooth, glossy finish and preserved coloration. Collectibility grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
Moon snails are predatory carnivores that drill circular holes into the shells of bivalves using an acidic secretion and their radula to consume the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active predator controlling bivalve populations in sandy marine habitats. They serve as a food source for various fish, birds, and larger marine carnivores.
Similar Species
Atlantic Moon Snail (Euspira lewisii), which is generally larger and lighter in color, and other Neverita species.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along sandy beaches at low tide, particularly after storms or heavy wave action churns up the offshore sandbars where they burrow.