Volutidae, common name volutes, are a taxonomic family of predatory sea snails that range in size from 9 mm to over 500 mm. They are marine gastropod mollusks. Most of the species have no operculum.

Distribution

This family of sea snails are found mainly in tropical seas, though some species also inhabit the waters of the polar circles.

Description

The large head has the eyes sessile on the sides below the base of the tentacles. The tentacles are far apart, united by a broad veil over the head. The mantle is sometimes greatly developed, covering the sides of the shell. The siphon is recurved, short, with auricles on each side of the base. The foot is very large, partly hiding the shell. There is no operculum. The shell shows distinct plaits on the columella. The apex of the spire is mamillated. The shells have an elongated aperture in their first whorl and an inner lip characterised by a number of deep plaits. The family of Volutidae comprises a suite of large shells remarkable for their great beauty and elegance of form. The shell of species such as Melo amphora can grow as large as 50 cm (19.7 inches) in length. Volutes are distinguished by their distinctively marked spiral shells (to which the family name refers, voluta meaning "scroll" in Latin). The elaborate decorations of the shells has made them a popular collectors' item, with the imperial volute (Voluta imperialis) of the Philippines being particularly prized.

Taxonomy

Subfamilies and tribes

According to Bail & Poppe (2001) Volutidae can be subdivided into the following Subfamilies and tribes:

Genera

Genera within the Volutidae include: