Home > Invertebrates > Shells > Tops & Turbans > Hiloa variabilis

Created 3/28/2026

Family Phasianellidae

INDO-WEST PACIFIC / HAWAII

Hiloa variabilis



Beach drift, Hapuna, Hawaii, 1.5 mm

   

VARIABLE PHEASANT SHELL

Common on brown algae such as Padina at any depth.  The fragile pink shell has wavy red lines, the columella is smooth, and the operculum is calcareous.  Attains 0.1 inch, 3 mm.  South Africa to Japan, Hawaii, and the Cook Islands.  Formerly known as Tricolia variabilis.