Grey topshell Steromphala cineraria

The grey topshell can be confused with the purple topshell, but has a more pointy conical shape to its shell, which has thin, numerous stripes. The grey topshell is grey to light yellowish in colour.

Behaviour

These sea snails are common across most of Scotland’s lower shore, spending most of their time grazing on seaweed and rocks. Occasionally, you can see their two striped antennae sticking out when they are on the move.

Size

Up to 1.5 cm high, and 1.5 cm diameter.

Status

Common.

Distribution

It is found along the lower shoreline around Scotland.

When to see

All year around.

Facts

Topshells get their name because the shell is shaped like an old-fashioned spinning top.

Common name

Grey topshell

Species name

Steromphala cineraria

When to see in Scotland

All year around.

Where to see in Scotland

You can find this topshell on the lower levels of rocky shores on weed and under stones, and sometimes in rockpools higher up on the shoreline.