Buccinum undatum

Buccinum undatum, commonly known as the Common Whelk or the Wave Whelk, is a species of large sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Buccinidae, the true whelks.

Description

The shell of Buccinum undatum can reach a length of about 10 cm. The shell is thick and strong, with a tall spire and a large body whorl. The color of the shell is usually a dull greyish or yellowish brown, often with darker spiral bands.

Distribution and habitat

Buccinum undatum is native to the North Atlantic Ocean, from the Arctic waters of Svalbard and Russia to the coasts of Portugal and New England. It is commonly found in subtidal and lower intertidal zones, on sandy or muddy substrates.

Ecology

The Common Whelk is a carnivorous scavenger, feeding on a variety of organisms, including bivalves, crustaceans, and dead or dying fish. It is also known to be a cannibal, consuming other whelks when food is scarce.

Human use

Buccinum undatum has been harvested by humans for thousands of years. Its meat is consumed in many countries, particularly in Europe, and its shells have been used for various purposes, including as tools and as decorative objects.

Conservation

While Buccinum undatum is not currently considered threatened, it is vulnerable to overfishing and habitat degradation. Conservation measures include regulations on the size and number of whelks that can be harvested, and the protection of important habitats.

See also

• List of gastropods
• Marine biology
• Mollusca