Nautilus vanuatuensis


Nautilus vanuatuensis is a species of nautilus native to the waters of Vanuatu. It was described as a separate species in 2023.

Description

It is distinguished from other nautilus species by its abundantly colored red shell. It has 40–50% shell coloration and its pigmentation occurs in stripes extending from venter to umbilicus.

Habitat

Nautilus vanuatuensis primarily lives in deep waters although it is commonly observed in shallow waters. It seems endemic to Vanuatu, where it is apparently the only species.

Etymology

The specific epithet, vanuatuensis, refers to Vanuatu, the type locality.