Trochus niloticus

snail

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

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Trochus niloticus is a species of marine snail belonging to the family Trochidae. These snails are characterized by their conical shells, which have a beautifully nacreous, or mother-of-pearl, interior. The Trochus niloticus species, found in the Indo-Pacific region, was historically fished for its lustrous shell lining, which was used to create buttons and ornamental objects. Top shells, including Trochus niloticus, are herbivorous, feeding on algae.12

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The largest species, Trochus niloticus, from the Indo-Pacific region, was, in fact, once extensively fished for its lustrous mother-of-pearl layer, which was used in the manufacture of pearl buttons.
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The largest species, Trochus niloticus, from the Indo-Pacific region, was, in fact, once extensively fished for its lustrous mother-of-pearl layer, which was used in the manufacture of pearl buttons.
Read More