Tiger Cowry

Overview

The Tiger Cowry (Cypraea tigris) is a large, iconic marine gastropod widely distributed across the tropical Indo-Pacific region. It is easily recognized by its glossy, heavy, egg-shaped shell, which is typically white or pale buff and densely covered with dark brown or black circular spots.

Distribution & habitat

This species is found throughout the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa to Micronesia, Polynesia, and the Hawaiian Islands. It inhabits shallow reef environments, often at depths between 0 and 40 meters, where it is frequently associated with live branching corals, such as Acropora. During the day, individuals typically hide under rocks, rubble, or within coral crevices to avoid exposure.

Appearance

The shell is dextral and can reach lengths of up to 15 cm. A defining feature of the living animal is its mantle, which possesses two lateral lobes that can extend to completely cover the shell. These mantle lobes often feature pin-like, white-tipped projections. When the mantle is retracted, the shell displays a characteristic porcelain-like sheen.

Biology & behavior

Tiger Cowries are nocturnal, emerging from their daytime shelters at night to forage. Unlike many other reef-dwelling mollusks, they are non-aggressive and non-venomous. They are gonochoric (having separate sexes), and females are generally larger than males. Reproduction involves broadcast spawning, where embryos develop into planktonic larvae before settling as juveniles.

Feeding

Adults are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of marine invertebrates, including sponges and coral polyps. In contrast, juveniles have different dietary requirements, feeding primarily on algae and detritus.