Pacific Partridge Tun Shell

The wonderfully patterned Pacific Partridge Tun Shell receives its name due to its dappled appearance which is reminiscent of a partridge's plumage.

The shell consists of broad flat spiralled ribs separated by shallow grooves with a brown and pale cream colouring of dashes circling its form.

The shell belongs to a group of seashells known as Tonnidae with each having attractive and prominent growth lines that circle inwards.

The family consists of small to large rounded shells; the animal which is often larger than its shell, is carnivorous, feeding on fish, urchins, crabs and sea cucumbers.

Pacific Partridge Tun (tonna perdix) inhabit tropical seas and live in moderate to deep water and are common to the Indo-Pacific region.

Size: approx 12-14 cm long   (5-5.5 inches)