They differ by having various forms of ridges including spiked, curled and branched. Like most snails in this family, they are predators, feeding on gastropods, bivalves and barnacles by drilling holes through the shells of their prey. Fresh shells have ornate sculpture but they are often badly damaged by the time they wash up onto beaches.

At a glance

Habitat Rock pools and subtidal areas of sheltered and exposed coast
Size Can grow to around 60mm
Origin Native
Distribution Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Descriptions
Distribution
Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Habitat
Rock pools and subtidal areas of sheltered and exposed coast
Size
Can grow to around 60mm

Identification

A white to cream shell with three thin ridges with rounded knuckles on the shell between the ridges
Common Name Three-shaped Murex
Aliases No Known Aliases
Origin Native
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumMollusca
ClassGastropoda
SubclassCaenogastropoda
SuperorderSorbeoconcha
OrderHypsogastropoda
SuborderNeogastropoda
SuperfamilyMuricoidea
FamilyMuricidae
SubfamilyMuricinae
GenusPterochelus
SpeciesPterochelus triformis
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
Original No original text available
Bibliography View page references
Added Wed 23 Jun 2021 @ 00:00 AM
Updated Sun 25 Sep 2022 @ 00:00 AM
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.