Common name: Marble Cone

General information

The Marble Cone, Conus marmoreus, is a species of predatory sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Conidae. These snails are known for their beautifully marbled shells and are a popular choice among shell collectors and marine enthusiasts. The species is also of interest due to its potent venom, which it uses to immobilize prey.

Care

In the aquarium, Conus marmoreus requires a sand substrate for burrowing and a stable environment with well-maintained water quality. They are not recommended for reef tanks with other invertebrates or small fish, as they can prey on them. Hobbyists should provide a diet of live or frozen meaty foods, mimicking their natural hunting behavior.

Reproduction

Marble Cones are gonochoristic, meaning individuals are distinctly male or female. In captivity, breeding is rare, but in the wild, females lay eggs in capsules, which hatch into free-swimming larvae.

Symbiosis

There are no notable symbiotic relationships involving Conus marmoreus in the aquarium setting. However, their venomous nature is a fascinating adaptation for predation and defense.

Habitat

Conus marmoreus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and French Polynesia. They inhabit coral reefs and sandy bottoms, often hiding during the day and emerging at night to hunt.