About Semicassis labiata (Perry, 1811)
Semicassis labiata (Perry, 1811) has a recorded maximum shell length of 76 mm for the subspecies Semicassis labiata iheringi. This subspecies has been trawled at depths of 70–75 m off São Paulo, Brazil, with a recorded minimum depth of 25 m and maximum depth of 84 m. The shell of Semicassis labiata is rounded, with a low but somewhat pointed spire. It is glossy and smooth, though it often displays one to two rows of low nodules in the shoulder region. In adult specimens, the outer lip is thickened, and the anterior end has a pronounced, up-curving siphonal notch. The shell varies significantly in size, nodule prominence, thickness, and depth of coloration. Specimens from the Agulhas Bank tend to be larger and thinner, with weaker nodules and less vivid coloration. Shell color ranges from pale pinkish-brown to yellowish-brown; some specimens have three to five rows of diffuse, semicircular whitish spots. The outer lip is marked by deep purple blotches, which often appear in pairs. Shell colors typically fade significantly after the organism dies. This species occurs in New Zealand. Along the coast of South Africa, it is found from the West coast of False Bay to the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal, at subtidal depths up to 150 m.
