Nature Field Guide
Short-toothed Rocksnail
- Spanish name
- Caracol de roca
- Scientific name
- Acanthais brevidentata
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
This rocky-shore snail offers a chance to study the shell opening.
Species overview
About the Short-toothed Rocksnail
Acanthais brevidentata is a muricid snail recorded on Costa Rican rocky shores. Rather than naming a find from one photograph, compare the shell outline, sculpture and opening with an identified specimen.
Explorer activity: Make a three-part observation: outline, surface and opening. Which part is hidden in your photograph? Write down what you still need to see.
Your discovery notes: Record the date, place and habitat, then add a sketch or photograph. If you cannot confirm the species, label it “unidentified shell” and keep your observations.
Identification
Key Features of the Short-toothed Rocksnail
A coiled shell belonging to the rocksnail family.
Record the shape of the spire and shell opening.
Use an identified Acanthais reference for species-level comparison.
Habitat & range
Rocky intertidal habitat.
Local observations
Pacific Costa Rica: Bahía Panamá field-study record. This supports regional inclusion, not a confirmed Tamarindo Beach sighting.
When to observe
Tides and conditions affect visibility. Let an adult or local guide choose a safe observation time; this card does not promise a seasonal sighting.
Conservation & care
Observe and photograph shells where they are. Leave living animals, occupied shells and empty shells in place. Do not pry animals from rocks, dig in mangroves or put fingers into shell openings. Explore with an adult or guide, follow site rules and stay clear of surf and slippery rocks.
Observation activity
Make a three-part observation: outline, surface and opening. Which part is hidden in your photograph? Write down what you still need to see.