The genus Lambis, or spider conchs, are large sea snails in the Strombidae (true conch) family, known for their spiny, flared shells, found in shallow tropical Indo-Pacific waters (like mangroves/reefs) and feeding on algae. They use a muscular foot for locomotion, moving in short bursts, and are recognized by their distinctive shell spines that give them their "spider" name.
Featured are two shells from species within the Lambis genus, including Lambis scorpius (Scorpion Conch) and Lambis lambis (Common Spider Conch) which are distinct species of spider conchs, differing in appearance, finger count, and habitat.
The L. lambis shell is often larger, more abundant, and has fewer, robust spines, while L. scorpius is more varied, smaller, and known for its scorpion-tail-like anterior spine, with regional differences in its form (Indian Ocean vs. Pacific).
Approx. Dimensions:
Lambis lambis - 116g - 6.25" x 4" x 2.5"
Lambis scorpius - 68g - 5" x 2.25" x 1.25"
