Neothais harpa

Neothais harpa is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Muricidae, the murex snails or rock snails. The Neothais harpa is classified as part of the Muricidae family and Neothais genus. This species was previously known as the Purpura harpa (Conrad, 1837) before it was changed. This name is currently unaccepted. The parent species is the Neothais Iredale, (1912). Species originates from the Muriciae family, common family to the Murex shells.

Description
Shell sizes vary from medium to large. Known for raised spires and strong sculpture with spiral ridges. Usually multi-colored ranging in colors from light brown to a dark brown complimenting a dark color within the shell. Known as a non-broadcast spawner. Functional group indicated is benthos.

Distribution and habitats
Known distribution in Eastern Central Pacific. Found in marine environments, typically benthic and tropical. Commonly found basalt shorelines of the windward islands. Life cycle does not include trochophore stage. The Neothais harpa is endemic to Hawaii. Non-threatening to human life. Feeding type is a predatory Uncommon shell.

Human use and cult significance
Used in lei and possibly bait, unconfirmed.