Moon Snail Egg Collar
Scientific Name: Euspira lewisii (for the Lewis's Moon Snail)
Category: other
Brief Description
A unique, sand-and-mucus structure created by a predatory marine snail to protect its eggs.
Characteristics
A circular or semi-circular structure that resembles a rubbery or stiff collar; it is made of sand cemented together with mucus. It feels like flexible plastic or sandpaper when wet.
Habitat
Coastal intertidal and subtidal sandy or muddy beaches.
When to Find It
Commonly found washed up on beaches during spring and summer after spawning.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Protects thousands of developing snail embryos from predators and environmental stress until they hatch as larvae.
Easily Confused With
Human-made plastic debris or rubber gaskets. Distinguish by the sandy texture and the presence of tiny egg capsules embedded within the casing.
Observation Tips
Look for them at low tide on sandy flats. Handle gently as they become very brittle once they dry out; it is best to leave them in the water to allow the eggs to hatch.
Interesting Facts
The female snail creates this collar by pushing sand and mucus between her foot and her shell, using the shape of her own shell as a mold for the collar's curve.