I’m excited to offer this beautiful specimen of Chicoreus riverai, a recently described species from the Tortuga Terrace and Pulley Ridge region of the Florida Keys. This species was named after me, Captain Randy Rivera, for discovering portions of the unique Tortuga Terrace molluscan fauna during my commercial lobster fishing operations aboard the F/V AVA PILAR and for providing important material used in the scientific study of these remarkable deep-water species.

This particular specimen was personally collected by me in January 2026 from a baited commercial lobster trap set in 240–300 feet of water and represents an exceptional example of this recently described muricid. An added bonus is that this specimen retains its natural operculum, something collectors always appreciate.

Following the original description by Petuch and Berschauer, Chicoreus riverai is distinguished by its compact, heavily sculptured shell, elevated spire, broad rounded body whorl, and spectacular frondose varices. The species possesses delicate branching spines, a proportionally short siphonal canal, and the characteristic orange to reddish-orange protoconch and early whorls that readily distinguish it from closely related Gulf species.

This specimen displays outstanding orange and cream coloration with beautifully developed varices and intricate frondose sculpture. The vivid orange protoconch is well preserved, while the branching spines give the shell remarkable depth and texture. The natural operculum complements the specimen nicely and adds to its overall desirability as a collector’s piece.

Condition

This is a beautiful collector-quality specimen with excellent color and outstanding overall presentation. The frondose sculpture, elevated spire, 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 impressive 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 riverai Petuch & Berschauer, 2026

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: 27.1 mm (1.07 inches)

TSC #: 0487MUR

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, and I’m honored to share species that have become part of the scientific record through these efforts.