Draft:Turbo sandwicensis

Description
Turbo Sandwicensis is a fascinating snail species that belongs to the turbinate family. It is unique due to its shape and rough skin.Turbo Sanwicensis, a species of sea snail belonging to the family Turbinidae, is one of Hawaii's top shells. The Hawaiian name for Turbo Sandwicensis is "marina," meaning moon shell, in reference to the round operculum.(Pukui and Elbers 1957).

Distribution and Habitat
Turbo Sandwicensis lives in shallow coastal waters of the Hawaiian Islands and can be found under rocks at a depth of approximately 60 feet. The species also has historical significance, with Pleistocene fossils found on Oahu and Molokai. After heavy surf, you can find the round white opercula of a common snail on Hawaiian beaches. These opercula are known as Pupu Mahina and can showcase stunning iridescent colors, resembling cat's eyes. They get their name from their moon-shaped operculum, which is clearly visible. It is interesting to note that T. sandwicensis exhibits notable variabilities within the Hawaiian chain, with leeward Island shells reaching lengths of over 90 mm, and scales being more common than on windward Island shells. Shells with disjunct whorls have also been identified as T. articulatus Reeve from Kure, providing insight into the species' evolution.