Sunburst Star Turban

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$20.00
$20.00
Unavailable
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Based on the distinctive star-like shape and prominent spines, this shell is a Long-spined Star Snail or Sunburst Star Turban, with the scientific name Astraea phoebia.

This is a beautiful and popular shell among collectors due to its unique, sun-like appearance.

Here are the key details about your shell:

  • Identification: The most striking features are the long, flattened spines that radiate out from the edge of the shell's whorl, giving it a star or sunburst shape. The top (apical) view, as seen in your photo, best shows this characteristic. The color is typically a pearly, off-white to a light brownish or bronze hue.
  • Size: A 2-inch diameter is a very common size for this species.
  • The Animal and its Habitat: The snail that creates this shell is an herbivore, feeding on algae. It lives in the warm waters of the Western Atlantic Ocean, commonly found in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and as far north as Florida. They prefer shallow, grassy or sandy seabeds near reefs.
  • Operculum: Like other turban snails, the living animal has a hard, stony "trapdoor" called an operculum that it uses to seal the shell's opening for protection. These are often found washed ashore and are sometimes called "cat's eyes."

1 available