Conus ochroleucus is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae, the cone snails, cone shells or cone snails. These snails are predatory and venomous. Like all species within the genus Conus, Conus ochroleucus possesses a venomous harpoon-like structure called a radula, which it uses to paralyze its prey.
Description & Characteristics
Conus ochroleucus, also known as the “ochroleucus cone snail,” is a medium-sized cone snail species. Its shell is characterized by a distinct conical shape and is typically light brown or yellowish-brown in color, often with darker brown spots or bands. The shell has a smooth surface and a pointed apex. The maximum recorded size of Conus ochroleucus is 45 mm.
Habitat and Occurrence
Conus ochroleucus is a marine species that primarily inhabits the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution includes the Philippines, Indonesia, and other nearby areas. This species is found in shallow waters, generally in the intertidal zone and subtidal zone, and is a common resident of coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. Conus ochroleucus is considered to be a relatively common species within its geographic range.
Taxonomy
Conus ochroleucus belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Conidae. The family Conidae includes a wide diversity of cone snails, with over 700 recognized species. Cone snails are known for their intricate shells, which exhibit a variety of colors and patterns.
Feeding
Conus ochroleucus is a carnivorous predator that feeds primarily on other marine invertebrates. It utilizes its venomous radula to paralyze its prey, which it then consumes. The venom of Conus ochroleucus, like that of other cone snails, is a complex cocktail of neurotoxins. While the exact composition of Conus ochroleucus venom is not fully understood, it is known to be highly potent and can be dangerous to humans.
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