King Helmet
| Name: | King Helmet |
| Scientific Name: | Cassis tuberosa |
| Family: | Helmets |
| Taxonomic: | Cassidae |
| ID Group: | Snails, Clams & Shells |
| Size: | up to 12 in. |
| Depth Range: | In shallow waters (0 – 15 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Not usually seen |
The King Helmet has a large, heavy, and solid helmet-shaped shell with a short, pointed tip. The shell is typically brownish cream with dark brown spots and knobby projections on the body whorl. The outer lip of the aperture is cream-colored with dark bands.
The King Helmet is also known as the Caribbean Helmet and is primarily found alone at night in shallow, sandy areas. It moves along the seafloor in search of prey, mostly Sea Urchins. The snail uses its strong foot to grip the urchin and break spines in a small area, then drills a hole with its radula. Acidic saliva helps weaken or dissolve parts of the urchin’s outer shell. The King Helmet’s large size and solid shell help protect it from predators.