Pear Whelk

Busycon spiratum

Collectors sometimes confuse the pear whelk with the lightning whelk. This happens because the shapes are similar and the vertical markings can be somewhat the same, especially on the ventral surface.  It doesn't take a very detailed inspection, however, to reveal the differences between the two species. 

First of all, the pear whelk is right-handed The shell has rounded shoulders without the nobs of the lightning whelk.  As to the pattern, look at the dorsal side. The vertical markings, if present at all, are not symmetrical or as well defined as the lightning lines of the lightning whelk. At best, any vertical lines will always appear somewhat blotchy.
 

It is more difficult to find live pear whelks than live lightning whelks, but both species are found in the same areas. Perhaps the difference in numbers of live specimens found is reflected in the fact that most pear whelks were more deeply buried in the sand, many with only the smallest portion of the canal being exposed.

Shell Identification Guide

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