Silver Conch

Lentigo lentiginosus

Lentigo lentiginosus is a medium-sized sea snail characterized by its heavy and thick shell, which can reach a maximum length of 100 mm, though it commonly grows to about 75 mm. The shell features a deep stromboid notch, a flared outer lip, and a smooth inner lip with a large callus. Its exterior is typically white adorned with large irregular brown blotches and dots, while the aperture is pink to orange inside. This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, with a distribution spanning from East Africa to eastern Polynesia, southern Japan, and northern Australia. The Silver Conch inhabits coral and sandy bottoms in clear waters, typically residing at depths of up to 4 meters. It is often located on barrier or lagoon reefs and in shallow intertidal zones. The species is herbivorous, feeding primarily on algae. Breeding involves a reproductive strategy common among many gastropods, where embryos develop into planktonic larvae before maturing into adults. Divers may encounter Lentigo lentiginosus resting on the seafloor, often camouflaged among coral and sand. Its distinct shell makes it relatively easy to identify, especially due to the unique coloration and texture. The species is collected locally for food and its shell is used in shellcraft, contributing to its presence in local markets in the central Philippines.