COASTE |TREASURES
3. Typically, shells of this family are shaped like long, slender augers or screws. World- wide, there are about 300 species. All are sand-dwelling carnivores found in warmer waters. By projecting a venomous barb, they stun their prey, which consists of various marine worms. They are easy to find for the most part while walking the shoreline, but don’t forget to check for a snail. 4. Despite its common name, the Crown Conch is not a true conch. While true conchs are herbivorous scavengers that feed only on plant matter, Crown Conchs are predatory. They feed on snails (including other Crown Conchs) and bivalves like clams and oysters. Not very royal behavior if you ask us. 5. The Lace Murex prefers coral reefs, rubble, in sandy ormuddy areas. The species ismost commonly found in intertidal to shallows just off the beach. Its range is from North Carolina south to southern Florida and west to Panama along its Caribbean coast. It’s the most common Florida Murex. It feeds on many species of bivalves, by boring a hole in the shell to feed on its occupant. Auger Crown Conch Lace Murex
46
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker