Kelp Shell

Phasianotrochus eximius

Sea Life Endemic IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

Common around Tomahawk often found washed up along Tomahawk Beach this species is very common amongst the Sea Nymph Amphibolis antarctica beds around the Tomahawk coast

Identification

Shell smooth with a long pointed spiral end (spire), sides quite straight. Colour patterns variable, usually green-brown with a light line spiral around the shell, sometimes wider broken spiral bands of colour. Opening oval, iridescent green with a thin lip. Inside of the shells brightly iridescent

Size

Can grow to around 4cm

Habitat

Kelp and other seaweeds in rock pools, bays and coasts

Distribution

Southern mainland Australia and Tasmania

Gallery

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Local Sightings

2 recorded sightings in and around the area.

References & citations (3)

Grove, S.J. (2018). A Guide to the Seashells and other Marine Molluscs of Tasmania web-site (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
Museums Victoria Staff (2017) Phasianotrochus eximius Kelp Shell in Museums Victoria Collections (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Kelp Shell
Scientific name: Phasianotrochus eximius (Perry, 1811)
Family: Trochidae
Category: Sea Life › Shellfish
Origin: Endemic
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Also Known As

True Kelp Shell
Choice Kelp Shell

Tags

gastropod

Information Website

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Header image: (CC BY-NC 4.0) © David Muirhead

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.