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TRIPHORIDAE |
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Nototriphora regina (Hedley, 1903) Description: Shell relatively small, sinistral. Protoconch planktotrophic, of 4½-5¼ whorls, with 2 spiral threads and dense axial riblets. Teleoconch whorls with 4 beaded spiral cords and axial costae; spirals 1 and 3 start immediately after protoconch, spiral 2 on 4th or 5th teleoconch whorl. By penultimate whorl, spiral 1 very strong, spirals 2 and 3 similar and weaker. Spiral 4 slightly exposed on all whorls. Another 2 spirals on base (numbered 5 and 6); spiral 5 smooth or weakly nodulose, spiral 6 smooth. Axial costae number 18-21 on penultimate whorl. Outer lip of aperture flared, anterior siphonal canal short and upturned, posterior canal a shallow notch. Colour white, with yellowish brown or orange on spiral 3 and on siphonal canal. Size: Adult shells 3.5 - 5.8 mm in length. Distribution: Endemic to Australia: Sydney, NSW, southwards and around southern Australia to Eucla, WA, but not known from Tasmania. Habitat: Occurs moderately commonly subtidally, down to about 200 m, and rarely in beach washup. Comparison: This species is readily distinguished by the yellowish brown or orange colouration on spiral 3. Figs. 1, 2: Cronulla, Sydney, NSW (C.064082). (Protoconch missing) |
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