Channeled Whelk Shell

22x30'' Pastel Pencil

The channeled whelk, Busycotypus canaliculatus, from the Indian River Lagoon. Photo courtesy of K. Hill, Smithsonian Marine Station.

http://www.sms.si.edu/irlfieldguide/Busyco_canali.htm

The Channeled Whelk is the home of a large snail. It can be found in along the eastern coast of the United States as well as California. This snail prefers intertidal or subtidal sandy habitats.


This shell is typically 5-8 inches long. It's body is pear shaped.

"Shell of a channeled whelk showing the characteristic large body whorl and straight siphonal canal. Photo courtesy of K. Hill, Smithsonian Marine Station."

http://www.sms.si.edu/irlfieldguide/Busyco_canali.htm