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Phasianotrochus eximius (Perry, 1811) Description; Shell smooth and glossy, sculptured with evenly spaced spiral grooves, about 4 on the spire whorls and 8-10 on the body whorl; further secondary microscopic spiral grooves between these primaries. Outer lip simple, columella with one tooth towards the anterior in mature specimens. Interior iridescent blue-green. External colouration variable; uniform olive-green, or reddish brown, or with white or green and white axial streaks. Size: Up to 40 mm high, typically 20 mm. Distribution: Endemic to Australia; Caloundra, Qld, to Dongara, WA, including Tas. Habitat: On seaweed, in pools and in semi-protected areas, on the open coast, at low tide and below. Uncommon live in the intertidal zone, but common as a beach shell. Comparison: Several similar but smaller species occur in southern Australia, but they do not extend into NSW. Figs. 1,2,3: Balmoral, Middle Harbour, NSW (C.350928)
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