Phyllonotus pomum (Gmelin, 1791)

apple murex

Description: A globose spindle-shaped shell. Color is brownish-yellow, sometimes with brown bands apparent on the outer lip. Sculpture includes 3 varices (broad axial folds) on each whorl, bearing short spines or nodules on the varicose, and smaller axial ribs crossed by irregular spiral cords. Aperture is sub-circular in shape.

Size: 60-80 mm.

Ecology: Inhabits sandy substrates, seagrass beds, or may be hidden under rocks in shoreface to inner shelf depths (0-70 m).

Geological range: Pliocene-Recent (5-0 million years ago).

Geographic distribution: Caribbean, Florida.

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