Conus virgatus, commonly known as the Virgate Cone, is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae, the cone snails, cone shells or cones. These snails are predatory and venomous.
Description & Characteristics
The Conus virgatus is a medium-sized cone snail that can reach a maximum size of 50 mm in length. The shell is typically a light brown or cream color with numerous fine, dark brown or reddish-brown lines or stripes running lengthwise down the surface, giving it a “virgate” or “striped” appearance. The shell shape is conical, with a pointed apex and a wider, rounded base. The aperture of the shell, the opening at the base, is relatively narrow and elongated.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Conus virgatus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. It is commonly found in shallow water habitats, including sandy or muddy bottoms, coral reefs, and rocky shores. They typically occur in the intertidal zone to depths of around 30 meters. This range places them within the neritic zone, the marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Conus virgatus belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Conidae. Gastropods are a large and diverse group of mollusks that includes snails, slugs, and limpets. Neogastropods are a group of marine gastropods that includes many predatory species, including cone snails. The Conidae family encompasses over 600 species of cone snails, all of which are known for their venomous harpoons.
Feeding
Like all cone snails, the Conus virgatus is a carnivorous predator. Its primary prey consists of other marine invertebrates, particularly worms and small fish. It uses a specialized harpoon-like structure, called a radula, to paralyze its prey with a potent neurotoxin. The radula is located in the mouth of the snail and can be extended quickly and forcefully. Once the prey is immobilized, the Conus virgatus uses its muscular foot to pull it into its mouth, where it is consumed. The venom of Conus virgatus can be dangerous to humans, although cases of envenomation are rare.
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