Spondylus varius

Thorny oyster
Stachelauster
Spondyle variable
Ostra espinosa
Spondilo

Distribution

The tropical Pacific
The Red Sea
The Indian Ocean

Substrate and environment

Exclusively a marine species
The species is generally observed on the reef or near it.
The species is generally attached to its substrate
The species can be found between 5 and 40 Meters.
Uncommon Species
Imitates a rock or a coral.

General behaviour of the species

Species generally solitary
Imitates a rock or a coral.

General characteristics of the species

Maximum size : 20 cm
The animal feeds on plankton or small organisms.

Relationship with humans

The species can be eaten but is of no particular culinary interest

The species can be confused with other species of similar appearance!