Cone SnailConus ebraeus
Category
- Rocky Shores
Description
Cone shells (Conus sp.) are marine gastropods distinguished by their thick obconic shells with short spires and a smooth surface. They are extremely venomous and are predatory. Cone shells are also known for their modified radula tooth likened to a dart or harpoon which can be extended some distance, to inject venom into their prey to immobilize it. C. ebraeus is one of the smaller cone shells measuring around 5 centimeters[1]; although mature individuals can be found measuring up to 6.2 centimeters[2]. It is recognized by its white colour and pattern of black markings. They have a rounded and relatively short spire.
[1] Richmond, Matthew (ed.). 2011. A fieldguide to the seashores of Eastern Africa and the Western Indian Ocean islands. Sida/WIOMSA.
[2] Kohn, A. 2013. Conus ebraeus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T192611A2127058. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T192611A2127058.en. Downloaded on 23 July 2018.
Habitat and ecology
This species is present throughout the Indo-Pacific region and can be found between 1 and 3 meters depth. It usually dwells on sand, amongst or beneath dead on coral reefs, limestone platforms and under boulders. It feeds on polychaetes, otherwise known as bristle worms.
Conservation and management
Worldwide, Conus ebraeus is traded in the shell collector’s market and is popular amongst tourists. Even if there is no data on the number of shells removed or traded, their low price could indicate that they are abundant. In Mauritius, the collect of shells from the lagoon is prohibited, though some shells seen on the market may have been imported. No specific conservation measure exists for this species, although it is likely to be found within the marine protected areas of Mauritius.
Did you know?
The cone snails use their osphradium instead of their eyes to detect their prey with a high level of precision. The osphradium is an olfactory organ linked to the respiration system.
