(Mohr, 1786)
Description (shell):
Shell similar to Colus gracilis , differing only in minor detail. Protoconch bulbous, often of greater diameter than next whorl and set more obliquely on spire; whorls more tumid. Spiral striae often more pronounced, less than 40 on last whorl; triangular area of last whorl lacking periostracum relatively smaller than in Colus gracilis . Aperture with long narrow siphonal canal; (about 25 % of shell height), not markedly inclined to left; outer lip arises at level of spiral stria 10-12 on last whorl (C. islandicus-drawing).
Size:
Up to 150 x 50 mm.
Colour:
White, with light horn-coloured periostracum.
Animal:
Indistinguishable from that of Colus gracilis.
Habitat:
On soft substrata, from 10-3000 m.
Distribution:
A northern species extending south to Shetland and the north coast of Scotland (Distr. C. islandicus); subfossil shells may be encountered in more southern waters.