Rare Deep-Water Species Named for Rachel Carson

I’m excited to offer this exceptional specimen of Chicoreus rachelcarsonae, one of the rarest deep-water muricids found in Florida waters. Originally described by Dr. Edward J. Petuch in 1987, this beautiful species was named in honor of the late Rachel L. Carson, the renowned marine biologist, naturalist, and author whose work forever changed our understanding and appreciation of the sea.

This particular specimen was personally collected by me in March 2026 from a baited commercial lobster trap set in 240–300 feet of water off Pulley Ridge in the Dry Tortugas aboard the F/V AVA PILAR. An added bonus is that this specimen retains its natural operculum, a desirable feature seldom encountered on specimens of this species.

According to the original description, Chicoreus rachelcarsonae is a delicate, highly frondose species characterized by three varices per whorl, five prominent spines on each varix, an elevated spire, and a completely closed siphonal canal. The species is distinguished by its beautiful pink to pale salmon-orange coloration overlaid with fine spiral threads, while the protoconch and early whorls display brilliant orange-red coloration. Petuch further noted that this remarkable species is presently known only from the outer continental shelf off western Florida and differs from related species by its delicate construction, larger aperture, and consistent five-spine arrangement.

This specimen exhibits exceptional frondose development with beautifully preserved branching spines and outstanding orange, cream, and pale salmon coloration. The elevated spire and vivid orange protoconch are well developed, while the retained natural operculum enhances the overall desirability of this remarkable collector specimen. Its intricate sculpture and delicate architecture make it an impressive representative of one of Florida’s most sought-after deep-water muricids.

Condition

This is a beautiful collector-quality specimen with excellent color and outstanding overall presentation. The frondose sculpture, elevated spire, delicate spines, and natural operculum are all well preserved. Minor imperfections associated with commercial trap collection may be present but do little to detract from the shell’s exceptional appearance. 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: March 2026

Collector: Captain Randy Rivera

Size: 32.4 mm (1.28 inches)

TSC #: 0570MUR-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 Tortuga Terrace. I take great pride in offering specimens that I have personally collected during my commercial fishing operations, providing collectors with authentic deep-water material from one of North America’s most unique marine environments.