Big One

[paul monfils]

Hi Tom,

I must say the various points of the descrïption are a bit confusing. The only two species in that area that actually reach a foot in shell length are Cassis madagascariensis and Pleuroploca gigantea.  The Cassis doesn't have an elongate siphon, but it has practically no spire either, certainly not a spire "like a True Tulip".  The Pleuroploca has a spire like a True Tulip, but also a very obvious long siphon. For the sake of discussion, let's forget "12" or more" and assume that "things look bigger underwater".  Other species in the area that exceed 8 inches include Cassis tuberosa, Tonna galea, and Charonia variegata.  The first two, while they lack an elongate siphon, have a flat or nearly flat spire.  The only one I can think of that has a tall spire without an elongated siphon is Charonia variegata, which also has an intricate pattern that might appear "checkered" underwater.  However, I can't imagine any Caribbean diver not recognizing that species!  So, I'm at a loss!

Is there a picture on that divers' forum?  <span class="petit">--Last edited by Paul Monfils on 2010-02-04 02:36:09 --</span>