Diana's Ear

Euprotomus aurisdianae

Euprotomus aurisdianae, known as Diana's Ear, is a small to medium-sized sea snail with a thick, solid shell that can reach a maximum length of up to 90 mm, though it typically grows to around 70 mm. The shell features a high pointed spire and an irregular body whorl adorned with large knobs and divergent ridges. Its color ranges from dull cream to pale grey, often with darker spots and lines, while the interior of the aperture is a rich orange or pink, fading towards the outer lip. This species can be distinguished from similar species by its characteristic shell shape and the deep stromboid notch present on its shell. Diana's Ear inhabits the West Pacific, from Japan to northern Queensland, Australia, primarily residing in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. It prefers shallow water coral reef areas, including coral sand, grassy sand flats, and dead coral, typically found at depths of up to 10 meters. As a herbivore, it feeds on algae and other plant materials found in its habitat. Breeding occurs through a process of broadcast spawning, where embryos develop into planktonic larvae before maturing into adults. Encountering Diana's Ear while diving can be intriguing, as divers may observe its unique shell and feeding behavior in its natural habitat. The species is commonly collected for food and its shell is used in local crafts, particularly in the Philippines.