The Virgin Cone – Conus virgo 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. Like all species within the genus Conus, they are known for their distinctive cone-shaped shells and intricate patterns.
Description & Characteristics
The Virgin Cone is characterized by its relatively small size, with shells reaching a maximum length of 40 mm. The shell is typically white or cream-colored, with a series of brown or reddish-brown spiral bands, often adorned with fine, irregular lines. The spire is low and pointed, and the aperture is narrow and elongated. The outer lip is smooth and slightly thickened, while the inner lip is smooth and slightly concave.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Virgin Cone – Conus virgo – is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a common inhabitant of shallow reefs and sandy bottoms, typically occurring in depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. This species is well-adapted to life in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, demonstrating its preference for the warm, clear waters of the neritic zone, the marine zone extending from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Conus virgo belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neogastropoda, and Family: Conidae. This classification reflects its position within the larger scheme of mollusks, placing it among the gastropods (snails and slugs) and within the Neogastropoda order, which encompasses a wide variety of marine snails. The Conidae family, encompassing cone snails, is characterized by their distinctive shell shape and venomous nature.
Feeding
The Virgin Cone – Conus virgo – is a predatory snail, relying on a venomous harpoon-like structure to subdue its prey. Its diet primarily consists of various marine invertebrates, including clams, snails, and worms. Once the prey is paralyzed by the venom, the snail uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and ingest the soft tissues.
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