I actually have  a live collected Conus auratinus from a trip to Rangiroa a
couple of years ago. It was collected at night in about 15 meters on Scuba.
It is only 50 mm so it is difficult to compare.  But, my shell is much
pinker and the spire is much more tapered with a sloping sholder. If I had
to guess, I'd say your's is aulicus. If you like, I can take a digital photo
and send it to you for comparison.

All the best,
Paul Kanner

----- Original Message -----
From: "Bruno Mathé" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2003 9:04 AM
Subject: Conus auratinus vs aulicus


> Dear Conch-lers,
>
> Could the conus specialists here (and also non specialist) tell me what
they
> are thinking about this specimen :
> <http://perso.wanadoo.fr/zonatus/Collection/Cones_a_c/Aulicus.htm>
>
> For a long time i was thinking it was a Conus aulicus, but i suddenly have
a
> doubt. Can it be a Conus auratinus ? This shell had been purchased twenty
> years ago in french Polynesia (of course, i have no proof that it's not an
> import from Philippines).
>
> Thank's a lot for any opinion.
>
> Regards
>
> Bruno
>