Ida's Mitre

Atrimitra idae

Ida's Mitre is a medium-sized sea snail with a strong, heavy shell that ranges from 20 to 60 mm in length. The shell is pinkish-tan in color, covered in a robust black periostracum when alive. This species can be identified by the three folds present on its columella and the pure white body of the snail, which features distinct black eye spots. This species inhabits marine environments along the coast from Northern California to Baja California, Mexico, typically found at depths shallower than 50 meters, with 88% of recorded occurrences being under 40 meters. The species prefers rocky surfaces where it can lay its egg capsules, which are yellow or transparent and about 8 mm high. Females can deposit over 90 capsules in just four days, each containing hundreds of tiny eggs that hatch into veliger larvae after approximately 24 days, depending on the temperature. As a specialized carnivore, Ida's Mitre can survive for extended periods without food, showcasing its adaptability in various marine conditions. Encountering this species while diving may involve spotting it on rocky substrates, where its unique coloration and shell structure can be observed up close.