> I recently purchased a Strombus alatus with a tiger stripe pattern
> and I was wondering if this is a common variation.  It is kind of a
> ratty shell with a mean scar near the aperture -- maybe the recovery
> from that injury had something to do with the pattern?

Tom,

I have collected and seen perhaps a dozen S. alatus with a zigzag
pattern.  They have probably gotten fairly rare because people usually
keep unusual shells.  I have also seen S. alatus create this pattern
after an injury but it turns back into its standard color soon after.

I agree with Phyllis.  I have seen some unusual pugilis / alatus hybrid
looking shells at Peanut Island.

Andrew