This is the European Sting Winkle (Ocenebra erinaceus), a medium-sized predatory sea snail native to European coasts. Recognisable by its elongated, spiny, and often rough-textured shell, which can reach up to 8 cm in length, this mollusc inhabits rocky shores and shallow subtidal zones, typically favouring areas with abundant bivalve populations.

Location:
Eastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, including UK and European coastal waters. Found from the intertidal zone to shallow subtidal depths.

Average Size:
Up to 8 cm in length.

Family:
Muricidae (Rock Snails)

Species:
Ocenebra erinaceus

Ecological Role:
A carnivorous gastropod, the European Sting Winkle preys mainly on bivalves such as mussels and oysters by drilling through their shells. It is considered an important natural predator but can also be a pest in shellfish aquaculture.

Reproduction:
Separate sexes; fertilisation is internal. Females lay clusters of yellowish egg capsules, often attached to rocks or shells, from which juvenile snails emerge directly.

Conservation Status:
Not globally threatened, but populations may be locally impacted by habitat disturbance, pollution, and past exposure to toxic antifouling paints such as tributyltin (TBT). Considered of economic concern due to its impact on shellfish industries.

Collection Note:
Accompanied by a loose hand written label, “Drake’s Island VIll 00”.