Conus regularis, commonly known as the “Regular Cone Snail”, is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae, the cone snails, cone shells or cones.
Description & Characteristics
Conus regularis possesses a distinctive conical shell, characteristic of its genus. The shell’s color is typically white to yellowish, often adorned with reddish-brown or brown spiral bands. These bands can vary in intensity and width, contributing to the unique appearance of each individual snail. The shell surface is smooth, glossy, and somewhat translucent.
Habitat and Occurrence
Conus regularis is found in tropical marine environments. It prefers shallow water habitats, typically residing in the intertidal zone to depths of around 100 meters. This snail’s distribution is primarily concentrated in the Indo-Pacific region. Conus regularis is often found among coral reefs, rocky areas, and sandy bottoms, highlighting its adaptability to diverse environments.
Taxonomy
Conus regularis, as with other cone snails, belongs to the Class Gastropoda, the snails and slugs. It falls within the Order Neogastropoda, a group known for their carnivorous feeding habits and generally well-developed shells. Finally, Conus regularis is a member of the Family Conidae, which encompasses the diverse and fascinating cone snails, renowned for their venomous harpoons.
Feeding
Conus regularis is a venomous predator, using its highly specialized harpoon-like radula to subdue its prey. Its diet primarily consists of other marine invertebrates, including worms, small fish, and other mollusks. The venom delivered by the harpoon contains a complex cocktail of toxins that paralyze and kill its prey, allowing Conus regularis to consume its victims.
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