(Turton, 1819)
Description (shell):
A tall conical shell similar in general appearance to that of Epitonium clathrus but with a more nearly straight-sided spire, closer contact between successive whorls, more numerous costae (12-15 on last whorl) bent so as to lie almost flat on the whorl surface; costae alternate from whorl to whorl and bend at the suture so as to join with the next costa on the same whorl; intercostal spaces with clear spiral striae. About 15 whorls, those of the protoconch often lost. Aperture is usually more angulated at the base of the columella than in Epitonium clathrus , columellar lip more everted, and labial varix less clear though varices are often visible elsewhere. Costae appear broader and less erect than those of Epitonium clathrus ; last whorl occupies about 40 % of shell height, aperture about 25 %.
Size:
Up to 40 x 12 mm.
Colour:
Much the same as in Epitonium clathrus though often darker and with more obvious spiral bands.
Animal:
Body like that of Epitonium clathrus , but more heavily pigmented.
Habitat:
Sandy bottoms 5-20 m deep.
Distribution:
Between the Mediterranean and Norway (Distr. E. turtonis).