Thick topshell

Thick topshell ©Nigel Phillips

Thick topshells

Thick topshells ©Nigel Phillips

Thick topshell

The thick topshell is a common sight on rocky shores in Wales and South West England.

Scientific name

Phorcus lineatus

When to see

January to December

Species information

Statistics

Height: Up to 3cm

Common

About

The thick topshell, also known as the toothed topshell, is found on rocky shores as far south as Morocco. North Wales is the upper limit of its range. They live on the mid shore, grazing on algae on the rocks at high tide.

How to identify

A conical whorled shell, pale grey in colour with a maroon zig-zag pattern and mother of pearl on the inside. It can be distinguished from similar, snail-like periwinkles and topshells by the 'tooth' just inside the mouth of the shell.

Distribution

Found on rocky shores around Wales and South West England.

Did you know?

Topshells get their name because the shell is shaped like an old-fashioned spinning top.