Dotted Dove Shell

Euplica scripta

Euplica scripta is a marine gastropod mollusk characterized by its oblong, subfusiform shell, which varies in size from 9 mm to 22 mm. The shell features a turreted, conical spire composed of seven or eight folded whorls that are often tuberculated. The ground color is whitish, adorned with brown undulating or zigzag lines that descend from the top to the base of the whorls. The body whorl is smooth and striated at the base, distinctly larger than the others, while the aperture is narrow and elongated at the lower end. This species can be identified by its unique shell markings and structure, which set it apart from similar species in the family Columbellidae. Euplica scripta inhabits a range of environments across the Indo-Pacific region, including areas off Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Australia. It typically resides at depths between 0 and 20 meters, often found under stones at low-water marks. The species is known to be a non-broadcast spawner, meaning it does not release its eggs into the water column but rather lays them in a more controlled manner. Divers may encounter the Dotted Dove Shell while exploring shallow reefs or sandy bottoms, where it blends into its surroundings. Observing this species can be a unique experience, as its distinctive shell patterns and colors can be quite noticeable against the substrate. The conservation status of Euplica scripta has not been evaluated by the IUCN, indicating a lack of specific data regarding its population trends.