Nautilus pompilius suluensis

(Habe & Okutani, 1988)

Vernacular names
English : Chambered Nautilus
French : Nautile commun

Classification
Class : Cephalopoda
Order : Nautilida
Family : Nautilidae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can grow to 16 cm in shell diameter (smallest of the two subspecies). Spiraled and chambered shell with the opening sheltered by a solid white-spotted hood. Shell coloration is white with conspicuous reddish-brown bands. This subspecies is much smaller.

Range and habitat
This subspecies is endemic to Sulu Sea in Philippines. Species also found from the Andaman Sea to south Japan, south to the Great Barrier reef. Lives in bottom of shores and coral reefs, down to 400 meters and more.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species’ status has yet to be assessed. It seems to be common within its large range. It is occasionally collected for the aquarium trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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