This exceptional Scaphella elizabethae measures 120.0 mm (4.72”) and was personally collected while commercial lobster fishing on Pulley Ridge, Dry Tortugas, Florida. Recovered from 240–260 feet in baited lobster traps aboard the F/V AVA PILAR during February 2026, this is a beautiful, large specimen of one of the most desirable western Atlantic volutes.
Originally described by Dr. Edward J. Petuch & Dennis Sargent (2011), Scaphella elizabethae is characterized by its thin, inflated, elongated fusiform shell, elevated suprapyramidal spire, well-developed, slightly angled shoulder, and wide aperture. The early postnuclear whorls bear faint longitudinal ribs that gradually fade on later whorls, while the shell exhibits the species’ signature pattern of widely spaced rows of rich brown square-to-rectangular spots set against a creamy white background. The aperture and columella display attractive pale yellow to yellow-orange tones, giving the species an elegant appearance unlike any other Florida volute.
This specimen displays excellent gloss, bold checkerboard patterning, and outstanding overall eye appeal.
Specimen Data
- Family: Volutidae
- Species: Scaphella elizabethae
- Author: Petuch & Sargent, 2011
- Location: Pulley Ridge, Dry Tortugas, Florida
- Method: Baited commercial lobster trap (240–260 ft)
- Date Collected: February 2026
- Collector: Randy Rivera – F/V AVA PILAR
- Measures: 120.0 mm (4.72”)
- TSC #: 0521VOL-TSC
Condition
A very attractive collector specimen with excellent gloss, crisp spotting, and strong display quality.
The shell has a chip on the outer lip and two small holes in the columellar plaits, both clearly shown in the photographs. These imperfections are reflected in the price but do not diminish the shell’s impressive appearance. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Shipping
Your specimen will be carefully packaged and shipped securely with tracking to ensure it arrives safely.
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