Herpetopoma larochei larochei

Herpetopoma larochei larochei is a subspecies of marine gastropod mollusc in the family Trochidae, the top shells.

Distribution

This top shell is endemic to the North Island of New Zealand, including Great Barrier Island and Mayor Island.

Shell description

The shell is broader that high, periphery angled towards the lower suture. Sculpture consists of seven beaded spiral cords, two above the peripheral one, two on the base, and two closely spaced, around the closed unbilical area. The beads are connected axially by retractive lamellae.

Coloration is buff, with a few scattered brown dots.

The maximum shell height is 5 mm, and width 5 mm.

References

• Powell A. W. B., William Collins Publishers Ltd, Auckland 1979 ISBN 0-00-216906-1