Indian Volute (Melo melo (Lightfoot, 1786))

Shell large to very large, readily recognized by the vivid yellow coloration and the swollen body whorl, covering most of the spire whorls. Sculpture consists of weak axial threads. Aperture extremely wide and yellow, outer lip thin arcuate and smooth. Parietal wall yellow, columella calloused with four strong plaits. No operculum. Color yellow, occasionally with interrupted brown spiral bands (especially on young specimens). Juvenile specimens have very large, domed apex and beautiful color patterns Polished shells are highly appreciated by tourist. Animal has a very large, dark brown and edible foot with thin, yellow lines. Some taxonomists use the name Melo nautica (Lamarck, 1822) for the elongate form. Distribution: Phan Thiet, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Phan Rang, Vung Tau, Tuy Hoa, Song Cau, Binh dinh, Quang Nagi, etc. Size: 125-365 mm.

Post Date:	3/23/2008
Expiry Date:	6/21/2008