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Military Turban

Large solid marine snail (mollusc) with noticeable rounded spirals (whorls). Generally smooth but some individuals show 2 strongly developed rows of spines on the body; rown or dark green striped patterns on a lighter green/fawn background.

They are fished commercially for human consumption. They are also prized bait for fisherman and can be locally fished out in some areas.

Size

Up to 100 mm long.

Field Guide

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  • Species Category: Marine
  • Species origin: Native
  • Conservation status: unknown

  • What to Observe

    Search area for 30 minutes and record the following:

    • Abundant: found easily with little searching

    • Frequent: found with minimal searching

    • Rare: only 1 or 2 individuals found with intensive searching

    • Not found: not present during search

  • When and Where

    When To Look

    • Throughout the year

    Where To Look

    • Tasmania, Victoria, NSW, South Australia, and Western Australia
    • Common on rocky shores particularly in exposed areas and rock pools
    • Shells often wash up on beaches

  • What Else?

    Similar Species

    It is difficult to confuse with any other mollusc because of its larger size, green to brown pattern and white operculum.
  • Trails: Killalea State Park NSW, Randwick Coastal Walkway NSW
  • Species Region: Australia