Money Cowrie
Monetaria moneta
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 0–70 m
- Max size: 4.5 cm
- For divers: safe
Once traded as currency across the Pacific and Indian Ocean and still used in African divination, the money cowrie is among the most collected shells on Earth. It grazes lagoon reefs in shallow water, keeping its small glossy shell polished beneath a fleshy mantle.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Gastropoda › Littorinimorpha › Cypraeidae › Monetaria
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 216874.
FAQ
- How deep does the Money Cowrie live?
- The Money Cowrie (Monetaria moneta) is typically found at 0–70 m.
- Is the Money Cowrie dangerous to divers?
- The Money Cowrie is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Money Cowrie get?
- The Money Cowrie grows to about 4.5 cm.