What is white-toothed cowry?

The white-toothed cowry (Ovatipsa chinensis) is a species of small, colorful sea snail that belongs to the family Cypraeidae. It is found in the western Pacific Ocean, particularly in the waters around Japan and the Philippines.

The white-toothed cowry has a glossy, smooth shell that is about 1.5-2.5 cm in length. The shell is usually a light brown color with darker spots or stripes, and the top of the shell is curved and smooth. The underside of the shell is a creamy white color with a tooth-like structure in the middle, hence the name "white-toothed" cowry.

This species of cowry is typically found on coral reefs and rocky substrates, where it feeds on algae and detritus. It is a popular species among shell collectors and is sometimes kept as a pet in marine aquariums.

Overall, white-toothed cowries are considered to be common and not threatened by habitat loss or overfishing.