Common name: Lettered Cone

General information

The Letter Cone, Conus litteratus, is a species of predatory sea snail known for its striking shell pattern and potent venom. The shell is typically cream-colored with a pattern of brown or orange markings that resemble letters or hieroglyphs, which is how it got its common name. This species is part of the Conidae family, which includes all cone snails, known for their conical shells and a specialized harpoon-like tooth for hunting prey.

Care

In the aquarium, Letter Cones require a sand substrate where they can bury themselves and ample space to hunt for food. They are not suitable for a reef tank with small fish or other invertebrates, as they can prey on them. A species-specific or predator tank is more appropriate. They should be fed a diet of live or frozen meaty foods, such as worms or small fish.

Reproduction

Reproduction in cone snails involves a fascinating process where the male uses a long, flexible appendage to transfer sperm to the female. In captivity, breeding is rare, but if conditions are right, the female will lay eggs in a gelatinous mass. The larvae are planktonic before settling and developing into juvenile snails.

Symbiosis

While not known for symbiotic relationships like those seen in clownfish and anemones, the Letter Cone's venomous capabilities are a result of a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. These bacteria produce the potent toxins that the snail uses for predation and defense.

Habitat

Letter Cones are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit sandy bottoms near coral reefs, where they can blend in with their surroundings and ambush prey. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.