This is the Common Whelk (Buccinum undatum), a large, predatory sea snail found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Recognisable by its spiral-shaped shell, which can grow up to 10 cm long, this mollusc inhabits sandy or muddy seabeds from shallow coastal waters to depths of around 1,200 metres.

Location:
North Atlantic Ocean, including UK coastal waters. Found from the intertidal zone to depths of approximately 1,200 metres.

Average Size:
Up to 10 cm in length.

Family:
Buccinidae (True Whelks)

Species:
Buccinum undatum

Ecological Role:
An opportunistic predator and scavenger, the Common Whelk feeds on bivalves, marine worms, and carrion. It plays a key role in benthic ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and population control of prey species.

Reproduction:
Separate sexes; fertilisation is internal. Females lay distinctive egg capsules in clusters, often attached to hard substrates.

Conservation Status:
Not currently listed as threatened, but local populations may be affected by overfishing and habitat changes. Management measures exist in some regions due to its commercial value.

Collection Date:
Collected in Sheringham, Norfolk in 1916.