rock shell

A rock shell is a type of marine snail belonging to the family Muricidae, which is part of the class Gastropoda. These snails are typically found in rocky areas, especially in tropical waters.12

The shells of rock shells are often elaborately decorated with spines or frills. Many species within this family have the ability to drill holes into the shells of other marine animals, such as bivalves, to feed on their prey. Some rock shells also exude a fluid that, when exposed to sunlight, turns into a vibrant purple dye, historically used to create Tyrian purple. Other members of the Muricidae family include pests like the oyster drill and various other snails with diverse shell shapes and feeding habits.2