Murex pecten (Venus comb murex)

This species is native to Indo-Pacific waters. The shell has over one hundred spines, which provide protection from predation, and prevent the snail from sinking in the soft mud.

Like many other murex snails, it feeds on other mollusks. Can grow very large to over 190mm. Lives in depth of range 0 – 340m. Collected for the edible flesh and the elegant shell which is much favoured among collectors.

Life cycle: Embryos develop into planktonic trocophore larvae and later into juvenile veligers before becoming fully grown adults.

A famous species even to the non-collector for its elegant spines. A perfect specimens is truly a work of art and a giant specimen with all its spines intact is a sight to behold.