The Common Atlantic Marginella, Prunum apicinum (Menke, 1828), has a shell that may reach 10 mm (almost half an inch). The shell is pear-shaped, with a highly polished surface. The outer lip of the shell is adorned with two or three darker spots. The shell of live individuals is translucent, almost transparent, revealing colors and patterns on the animal’s body within. The shell will become opaque after the death of the animal. The species is very common in the seagrass beds present all through the protected back waters of South and Southwest Florida. The picture of the live animal was taken by Amy Tripp on Goodland, Collier County.
The Common Atlantic Marginella, photos by José H. Leal, photo of live animal by Amy Tripp.