Barycypraea teulerei

Lore & Background

The shells of Barycypraea teulerei are highly variable in pattern. The dorsum surface is not particularly smooth and shiny as is commonly the case in cowries. The basic color is light beige or cream, with irregular dark brown patches on the top and many light brown spots on the sides. The calloused margins are whitish, while the base is white, with a large sinuous aperture with only traces of labial teeth. Externally, this species is similar to Barycypraea fultoni and Muracypraea mus.

Reader's Guide

Barycypraea teulerei is notable for its restricted distribution, occurring only in the Arabian Sea along the mainland coast of Oman and on Masirah Island. Its habitat includes intertidal shallow waters, primarily on coral reef but also on sandy and muddy sea bed. The species was at one time considered very rare, though it is now regarded as uncommon. Its shells reach an average length of 40 to 48 mm, with a minimum of 33 mm and a maximum of 67 mm. The pattern is highly variable, and the dorsum lacks the typical smooth, shiny finish of many cowries. The basic coloration is light beige or cream, with irregular dark brown patches on top and light brown spots on the sides. The margins are whitish and calloused, while the base is white, featuring a large sinuous aperture with only traces of labial teeth. Externally, it resembles Barycypraea fultoni and Muracypraea mus, which may cause confusion in identification. Its presence in the Arabian Sea and its variable patterning contribute to its interest among collectors.

Did You Know?

• The shells reach an average length of 40–48 mm, with a maximum of 67 mm.
• It is externally similar to Barycypraea fultoni and Muracypraea mus.