A Rare Deep-Water Species from the Outer Continental Shelf of the Dry Tortugas

I’m excited to offer this beautiful specimen of Chicoreus rachelcarsonae, one of the most sought-after deep-water muricids found off the Florida coast. Originally described by Dr. Edward J. Petuch in 1987 and named in honor of famed marine biologist and conservationist Rachel Carson, this delicate species remains one of the true gems of the Gulf of America deep-water fauna.

This particular specimen was personally collected by me in January 2026 from Pulley Ridge in the Dry Tortugas aboard the F/V AVA PILAR during my commercial lobster fishing operations. It was recovered from a baited lobster trap set in 240–300 feet of water, a habitat known for producing some of the most spectacular deep-water Muricidae.

Following the original description by Petuch, Chicoreus rachelcarsonae is distinguished by its delicate, highly frondose shell, elevated spire, and three varices per whorl. Each varix bears five prominent spines, giving the species an elegant, lace-like appearance. The shell displays the characteristic pale salmon-orange to bright orange coloration with numerous fine spiral threads, while the protoconch and early whorls retain the vivid orange hues that make this species instantly recognizable.

This specimen exhibits outstanding color with rich orange and cream banding throughout the shell. The broad varices are beautifully developed, and the long frondose spines create an impressive profile. The dark operculum is present, providing an attractive and desirable addition for the advanced muricid collector. The elevated spire and vivid coloration combine to make this an exceptional representative of this uncommon deep-water species.

Condition

This is a beautiful collector-quality specimen with exceptional color and excellent overall eye appeal. The delicate fronds and major spines are well preserved, and the shell retains its natural elegance and symmetry. Minor imperfections and slight tip wear are consistent with commercial trap collection and do little to detract from the specimen’s outstanding presentation. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description and accurately represent the specimen being offered.

Specimen Data

Family: Muricidae
Species: Chicoreus rachelcarsonae Petuch, 1987
Location: Pulley Ridge, Dry Tortugas, Florida
Collection Method: Personally collected in baited commercial lobster traps set in 240–300 feet of water aboard the F/V AVA PILAR.
Collection Date: January 2026
Collector: Captain Randy Rivera
Size: 30.2 mm
TSC #: 0305MUR-TSC

Your specimen will be carefully packed and shipped with tracking to ensure it arrives safely.

Thank you for supporting Tortugas Shell Collection and helping preserve and appreciate the remarkable molluscan fauna of the Dry Tortugas and Pulley Ridge. I take great pride in offering specimens that I have personally collected during my commercial fishing operations and am honored to share these extraordinary deep-water treasures with fellow collectors.