The Giant Triton (Ranella Gigantea) is a large species of sea snail belonging to the family Ranellidae within the superfamily Tonnoidea. This impressive mollusk is characterized by its robust, glossy shell, which can reach lengths of up to 20 cm or more. The shell typically has a distinctive conical shape and is adorned with intricate patterns, often featuring shades of brown, white, and orange.
Found primarily in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean, the Ranella gigantea inhabits sandy and rocky substrates in shallow marine environments, often at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. As a carnivorous gastropod, the Giant Triton feeds on a variety of prey, including small invertebrates such as polychaete worms and mollusks. This species thrives in both coral reef ecosystems and seagrass beds, where it can easily blend into its surroundings.
This is one of two specimens sharing the same accession number. This example is a male, which appears smaller than its female counterpart; the larger size of the female may be to accommodate the presence of eggs.