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	Kingdom Animale | Phylum Mollusca | Class Gastropoda

Wandering Cowrie Cypraea errones Family Cypraeidae This family of coral reef snails are greatly sought after by shell collectors. Cypreae showing proboscis The wandering cowrie (length 2-3cm) occurs in many variegated forms, feeding on algae and encrusting organisms. The mantle (outer layer of body) covers the shell during movement and secretes pearl-like substances to maintain its glossy appearance. Larger relatives include the famed Tiger Cowrie, C. tigris (which is actually spotted), and the Arabian Cowrie, C. arabica, both of which are quite rare in local waters.

Introduction Shore environment

From A Guide to Seashore Life by Dr Leo W H Tan and Peter K L Ng Published by the Singapore Science Centre and sponsored by BP @Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research and Singapore Science Centre