Aquarium of the Pacific - Online Learning Center - Species Print Sheet
Conservation Status: Safe for Now
Geographic Cone Snail
(Conus geographus)Invertebrates • Mollusks
Species Overview
The geographic cone is also known by the name Anbonia, a name derived from its discovery in the Gulf of Anbonia in Indonesia. This fairly large cone is the most dangerous of the cone shell species.
Species In-Depth
At the Aquarium
Shells of geographic cone are found in the Tropical Pacific Gallery.
Geographic Distribution
Tropical Indo-Pacific region, Australia.
Habitat
Geographic cones live in sand pockets near reef edges, under dead coral rubble or among coral reefs.
Physical Characteristics
This beautiful cone has a lightweight and thin but not fragile shell. Slightly glossy, the shell is oval and cylindrical with parallel sides that constrict to a narrower base. The body of the shell has slightly angled depressions that resemble wrinkles. The aperture is wide at the bottom. The shoulder of the shell is wide and angled, with a low spire and rounded coronations.
The background color is some variation of white, cream, pink or blue, heavily covered with fine brownish lines and irregular brownish blotches.
Size
The geographic cone snail is 7-15 cm (2.8-6 in) in length.
Diet and Feeding
They are nocturnal piscivores. They feed at night by stunning and capturing several small fish that they store internally. After gathering enough for a meal, they eat them individually.
Reproduction
Follow this link for additional information on cone snails.
Amazing Facts
Geographic cone snails are known to have caused a number of human deaths. Their long and highly expendable proboscis is capable of reaching any part of its shell, which means it cannot be safely picked up by hand.
