Florida Cone

Conus floridanus

The Florida cone is a member of one of the most popular shell families in the world. There are more than 400 species of cones and they are known for their bold colors and patterns. While other smaller, less colorful cones are available on Sanibel, the Florida cone and its cousin, the alphabet cone, are the largest, most colorful, and most sought after. 

The adult Florida cone is smaller than the alphabet cone, and has a higher, more conical spire. It typically exhibits large blotches of orange rather than symmetrical rows of orange spots. Most authors indicate that this shell is white with varying amounts of orange. While the reverse might also be true, it is obvious that the various color forms can be categorized by the amount of orange exhibited.

The picture shows the typical forms available on Lee County Beaches. Younger, smaller specimens always feature more white.  Most older specimens will exhibit some traces of a light horizontal band near the middle of the shell.  The most uncommon variety is the solid orange shell.

This shell is very difficult to find alive on the beach.

The Florida cone has a very thin operculum.  Dead specimens are fairly common, but usually will not have a sharp spire. 

Cones are striking because they inflict a poisonous sting upon their victims.  This is accomplished with a harpoon-like device. The sting from any cone in Florida is not fatal to humans, but may cause a lot of pain.