Home > Invertebrates > Shells > Nerites > Nerita polita

Updated 1/10/2025

Family Neritidae

INDO-WEST PACIFIC / HAWAII

Nerita polita

Kaupo, Oahu

 

 

Kapoho tidepool, Hawaii

 


Savusavu Bay, Fiji
   

POLISHED NERITE    KŪPE‘E

Locally common in sand under boulders at the water's edge, where they graze on algal film after sunset.  Color varies between individuals, not tied to location, aperture white or yellow, with two teeth.  Harvested for food and jewelry.  Attains 1.6 inches, 40 mm.  Red Sea to Japan, Hawaii, and French Polynesia.