Eudocimidae

Eudocimidae is a family of marine snails belonging to the order Neogastropoda. These snails are characterized by their typically elongated, fusiform shells, often with a pointed apex and a long siphonal canal. The aperture is usually ovate, and the columella may be plicate or smooth. The operculum is generally paucispiral. Eudocimids are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, inhabiting a range of environments from shallow intertidal zones to deeper offshore reefs. They are predatory gastropods, feeding on other invertebrates such as bivalves, polychaetes, and other gastropods. Their hunting strategies vary, with some species actively pursuing prey while others lie in wait. Reproduction in Eudocimidae typically involves internal fertilization and the deposition of egg capsules. The larval development can be direct or indirect, depending on the species. Some well-known genera within this family include Murex, Chicoreus, and Hexaplex, many of which are prized by collectors for their elaborate and ornate shells. These shells have also been historically used for ornamentation and, in some cases, for the production of dyes. The family is moderately diverse, with numerous species described globally.