Astralium rotularium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Astralium rotularium |
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The rotary star shell or knob star shell (scientific name: Astralium rotularium) is a type of sea snail. It's a marine mollusk that belongs to the Turbinidae family, also known as turban snails.
About the Rotary Star Shell
What Does It Look Like?
The shell of the rotary star shell is usually between 25 and 50 millimeters long. That's about 1 to 2 inches. It is white and shaped like a cone. The top part, called the spire, is somewhat pointed.
The shell has six whorls, which are like the turns of a spiral. These whorls have fine ridges and many overlapping folds near the sutures (the lines where the whorls join). The main part of the shell, called the body whorl, has a ridge with bumpy folds. The bottom of the shell is rounded and has bumpy lines that go in circles.
The inside edge of the shell's opening, called the columella, is white and curved. The aperture, which is the main opening of the shell, is slanted.
Where Does It Live?
This sea snail lives in the ocean waters around Australia. You can find it off the coasts of the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia.
