Like all species within the genus Conasprella, these cone snails are predatory and venomous. They are capable of stinging humans, therefore live ones should be handled carefully or not at all.
Description
The size of the shell varies between 20mm and 40mm though larger may exist. Conasprella ximenes have a robust, conical shell with a pointed apex and a venomous harpoon. The shell is smooth and glossy, with a variety of colors and patterns. The opening of the shell, is narrow and elongated, leading to a pointed siphonal canal.[2]
It is a carnivorous predator that uses its harpoon to hunt and subdue its prey. The venom is delivered through the harpoon and paralyzes the prey, allowing the snail to consume it whole. The diet mainly consists of worms, small fish, and other mollusks.[2]
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Distribution
This marine species occurs from the Gulf of California, Western Mexico to Peru; and off the Galápagos Islands.It can be found in coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottom in depths between 10 and 50 meters, in the neritic zone (shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf).[2]
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