Taxonomy
The species was formally described as Conus mazei by J. G. L. Mawe in 1826. It was later reclassified into the genus Conasprella, a grouping within the Conidae family that has been elevated from a subgenus of Conus to its own genus.- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Mollusca
- Class: Gastropoda
- Order: Neogastropoda
- Family: Conidae
- Genus: Conasprella
- Species: C. mazei (Mawe, 1826)
Description
Conasprella mazei typically possesses a slender, somewhat cylindrical to conically oblong shell. The shell surface can range from smooth to finely sculptured, often exhibiting subtle spiral striae or grooves, particularly on the lower half.- Size: Shell length commonly ranges from approximately 20 to 40 mm, though variations exist.
- Coloration: The base color is usually white or cream, often adorned with diverse patterns of yellowish-brown, orange-brown, or reddish-brown blotches, axial flames, or spiral bands. The apex (tip of the shell) may occasionally display a pinkish or yellowish tint.
- Aperture: The aperture (opening) is narrow and elongate, with a straight outer lip.
Habitat and Distribution
This marine species is native to the Western Atlantic Ocean. Its geographic distribution includes the Caribbean Sea, with occurrences noted off the coast of Florida, the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and other islands within the West Indies.Conasprella mazei inhabits subtidal zones, typically found on sandy or muddy bottoms, often among coral rubble or seagrass beds. It can be found at depths ranging from relatively shallow waters to several tens of meters.