Orange Whelk

Xanthochorus cassidiformis

Orange Whelk

A predatory whelk of sandy and silty bottoms, this orange snail ranges from shallow water down to about 100 metres. It hunts other shelled animals, using its rasping tongue to bore through their shells and feed on the soft flesh.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Gastropoda › Neogastropoda › Muricidae › Xanthochorus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 404389.

FAQ

How deep does the Orange Whelk live?
The Orange Whelk (Xanthochorus cassidiformis) is typically found at 2–100 m.
Is the Orange Whelk dangerous to divers?
The Orange Whelk is harmless to divers.