Central and South Florida Gastropod Seashell Identification Guide: Melongenas
Melongenas
(Family) Melongenidae
Distinguishing Characteristics: The Melongenas have a broad siphonal canal, almost as wide as the aperture. They often have spines that wind around the shoulders and down the body whorl.
Habitat: These snails prefer to live on intertidal mudflats near mangroves and can survive in brackish water.
Diet: This family feeds on oysters, tulip snails, and will scavenge on carrion.
Scientific Name: Melongena corona
Common Name: Crown Conch
Distinguishing Characteristics: Often possess large, partly hollow spines traveling up the body whorl to the shoulders and spire. Species with missing spines may be the result of a dietary deficiency. Broad dark brown and white stripes predominate the body. Maximum size 5 inches.
Interesting Facts: Also known as the King's Crown or Florida Crown Conch. Two other forms, Melongena bicolor and Melongena altaspira were recently found to be just variants of Melongena corona.
Crown Conch