Exceptional specimen of Chicoreus riverai Petuch & Berschauer, 2026 personally collected by me during deep-water lobster trapping operations off the Dry Tortugas. Recently described in 2026, this remarkable species was named in my honor for contributions to the discovery and collection of the Dry Tortugas deep-water fauna.
This specimen is especially striking due to its dramatic dark-tipped fronds and spines contrasting against the cream and tan body coloration. The exaggerated frondose sculpture, elongated canal, and sharply layered varices give this shell outstanding visual appeal and make it one of the more unusual color forms I have collected.
Collected from the Tortuga Terrace deep-water fauna in approximately 240–300 feet using baited lobster traps. Fragile species like this commonly show minor natural imperfections from trap collection, though this specimen remains exceptionally well preserved with strong display quality throughout.
Specimen Data
Species: Chicoreus riverai
Family: Muricidae
Author: Petuch & Berschauer, 2026
Recently Described: 2026
Named In Honor Of: Randy Rivera
Location: Tortuga Terrace, Dry Tortugas, Florida
Depth: 240–300 ft
Method: Baited lobster trap
Collector: Randy Rivera / F/V Ava Pilar
Date Collected: November 2025
Size: 39.2 mm
Condition
F+++ specimen featuring exceptional frond development, dark-tipped varices, intact canal, and outstanding overall eye appeal. Minor natural imperfections consistent with delicate deep-water trap-collected material.
Shipping
Shell will be professionally packed with extreme care to protect delicate fronds and spines during transit. Combined shipping available on multiple purchases.
Tortugas Shell Collection
Personally collected deep-water specimens from the Dry Tortugas and Tortuga Terrace region specializing in rare and unusual Gulf and Caribbean mollusks.