I am pleased to offer this exceptional specimen of Scaphella elizabethae Petuch & Sargent, 2011, a distinctive Dry Tortugas volutid known for its inflated fusiform profile, elevated spire, and elegant pattern of widely spaced dark brown spots. Personally collected during legal commercial lobster operations aboard the F/V AVA PILAR, this specimen displays the classic characters that define the taxon.
Originally described from the Dry Tortugas, S. elizabethae differs from typical Scaphella junonia by its broader, more developed shoulder, smoother early whorls, and attractive pattern of fewer, smaller, widely spaced spots. This specimen exhibits those traits exceptionally well, with a glossy cream-colored shell, rich contrasting markings, and a beautifully developed shoulder row of rectangular checkers. The protoconch retains excellent coloration, and the four strong columellar plaits are in outstanding condition. A minor growth mark is present, along with a slightly rough outer lip, both natural and noted for accuracy. Overall, this is a beautiful collector-quality specimen with tremendous eye appeal.
Specimen Data
Family: Volutidae
Species: Scaphella elizabethae Petuch & Sargent, 2011
Location: Northwest Dry Tortugas, Florida
Collection Method: Baited lobster trap, 180–200 feet
Collection Date: November 2025
Collector: Randy Rivera – F/V AVA PILAR
Measures: 104.2 mm
TSC #: 0472VOL-TSC
Condition
A beautiful, glossy specimen displaying the classic characteristics of the species. The shell has excellent color and pattern, with well-developed shoulder checkers and an attractive inflated profile. The four columellar plaits are crisp and in outstanding condition. A minor growth mark and a slightly rough outer lip are present and have been reflected in the pricing. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Shipping
Your specimen will be carefully packed and shipped securely with tracking to ensure safe arrival.
Thank you for supporting Tortugas Shell Collection and helping preserve the remarkable molluscan diversity of the Dry Tortugas and Gulf waters. Each specimen represents a unique piece of Florida’s natural history, personally collected during commercial fishing operations and selected for quality and scientific significance.