Turbo

gastropod genus

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

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The genus Turbo refers to marine snails belonging to the family Turbinidae. These gastropods are characterized by their stout shells, which feature a wide aperture and a turban-like coil. The shells can be adorned with beads, knobs, or ridges. The largest species is the green turban (Turbo marmoratus), found in the East Indies and Australia. Its operculum, or shell lid, is used in button making. The family Turbinidae is the type genus for the Rhipidoglossa suborder of gastropod mollusks. Many snail species, including some turban shells, are consumed by humans and play a role in decomposing organic matter.123

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gastropod
Importance to humans
…Japan, and turban shells (Turbo) in the Pacific are the most frequently eaten marine snails. Occasionally limpets and whelks are used for food, but they are more commonly used as fish bait. Freshwater snails rarely are eaten. Land snails of the family Helicidae have been eaten in the Middle…
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…Japan, and turban shells (Turbo) in the Pacific are the most frequently eaten marine snails. Occasionally limpets and whelks are used for food, but they are more commonly used as fish bait. Freshwater snails rarely are eaten. Land snails of the family Helicidae have been eaten in the Middle…
Read More