Common Spider Conch
(Lambis Lambis)
Accession Number:
PLYMG:NH.1991.23.17x.4
Common Spider Conch (Lambis Lambis)
Common Spider Conch (Lambis Lambis)
Accession Number: PLYMG:NH.1991.23.17x.4
This ornate, elongated shell is a Common Spider Conch (Lambis lambis), known for its striking finger-like spines extending from the outer lip. It typically measures between 15 and 30 cm in length. The shell is creamy or pinkish in colour with brown markings, and the interior is smooth and glossy, often with orange or pearlescent white tones. Lambis lambis feeds mainly on algae, using its long, muscular foot to move in short, leaping motions across the seafloor.
Location:
Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the Philippines and northern Australia, living in shallow tropical waters.
Average Size:
15–30 cm in length.
Family:
Strombidae (True Conchs)
Species:
Lambis lambis
Ecological Role:
The Spider Conch plays a valuable role in coral reef ecosystems by grazing on algae and detritus, helping to maintain ecological balance.
Reproduction:
Spider Conches reproduce sexually, with internal fertilisation. Females lay egg masses on the substrate, which hatch into free-swimming larvae.
Conservation Status:
Although not currently listed as threatened, Lambis lambis is vulnerable to overharvesting and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are important to support healthy populations.