Phasianella entricosa

Phasianella ventricosa, common name the swollen pheasant shell or common pheasant shell, is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Phasianellidae. ^[1]

Description

The shell of an adult Phasianella ventricosa can be as long as 20–45 millimetres (0.79–1.77 in). It is a medium weight shell, with rounded whorls. The surface is smooth and glossy. The basic coloration is brick-red with fawn or cream axial streaks and alternating brown and white spiral lines.

Distribution

This species is endemic to Australia, from New South Wales to Western Australia and Tasmania. It lives on kelp and under rocks on reefs at depths of about 10 m.

References

• Swainson, W. (1822) Appendix: Description of several new shells, and remarks on others, contained in the collection of the late Mrs. Bligh. In: A catalogue of the rare and valuable shells, which formed the celebrated collection of the late Mrs. Bligh. The sale of this collection ... 20 May, 1822. C. Dubois, London: appendix, pp. 1-20
• Grove, S. 2011. The Seashells of Tasmania: A Comprehensive Guide. Taroona, Australia: Taroona Publications. [vi], 81