Description: This scaphopod reaches up to 5 cm in length. The thin shell is white and is shaped like an elephant tusk, with a distinct curve. Both ends of the shell are open and it is markedly tapered. The shell is relatively smooth and there are no growth rings or striations visible at the narrow end.

Habitat: Found on soft sediment, usually sand. Found down to 2000 m.

Distribution: Recorded from all around Britain and Ireland, less common in southern areas.

Similar Species: Antalis vulgaris is also present in Britain and Ireland, although usually only on SW coasts. There are some records from west coast of Ireland.

Key Identification Features:

• Distinctive tusk-shaped shell.
• White shell, open at both ends.
• No growth rings or ridges visible at narrow end of shell.
• Markedly tapered.

Distribution Map from NBN: Antalis entalis at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Antalis entalis at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Antalis entalis

WoRMS: Antalis entalis at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Antalis entalis (Linnaeus, 1758). AphiaID: 150534.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Mollusca; Scaphopoda; Dentaliida; Dentaliidae; Antalis