Kelp Shell

Phasianotrochus eximius

Phasianotrochus eximius is a marine gastropod with a solid, thick shell that can reach heights of 20 to 40 mm. The shell features an elongated-conical shape, polished and shining in appearance. Its coloration ranges from brown to fawn or rosy, adorned with four widely spaced narrow spiral lines on the penultimate whorl. The surface exhibits microscopic spiral striations, and the shell's apex is acute with seven slightly convex whorls. The body whorl is rounded, and the aperture is ovate, brilliantly iridescent within, and sulcate, with a thickened greenish peristome. This species is endemic to Australia, found in subtidal and intertidal zones on seaweed across New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and Western Australia.  It typically inhabits depths shallower than 40 m, with most occurrences recorded at depths less than 10 m. Encountering this species while diving can be intriguing as divers observe its unique shell structure and coloration among the seaweed.