Sole Murex Shell (2”-3”)

The Murexes can have many different forms of ornamentation.  Their shells are often very strong and covered with spines, making them popular collectors items.

Habitat:  These snails may be found on rocky or sandy bottoms in near shore waters.

Diet:  Most members of this family feed on bivalves by rasping a hole through the clam or oyster's shell, giving the common name of some species Oyster Drill.  They can also prey on other molluscs or scavenge on carrion.

Interesting Facts:  Most Murexes all possess a special gland that can be processed to make a vibrant purple dye greatly valued by ancient Mediterranean cultures. Production of Tyrian Purplefor use as a fabric dye began as early as 1200 BCE by the Phoenicians, and was continued by the Greeks and Romans until 1453 CE, with the fall of Constantinople.

The Shell(s) you receive may not look exactly like the images.  No two are alike.