Strange Hole in Shell

[ecohippie]

Hello all,
Today I noticed a hole in a cerith snail shell located above the opening. The hole is about one centimeter in diameter. It appears that something cracked this hole in the top to extract the contents. However, I have no clue as to what could have done it. Maybe a pistol shrimp? Has anybody else seen this?

Kev

 

[bang guy]

Sounds like the work of a Buccinid Whelk or a Bumblebee Snail.

 

[appaloosa1]

Moon snail! sorry my science teacher in 8th grade has us involved in some sort of project that had us go to the beach and count the number of snails/clams that had been eaten by them. The hole is larger at the top and smaller at the bottom if that helps

 

[ecohippie]

Do any of you have an idea on how I could get rid of this pest. I have noticed it killing my hermit crabs at a fairly high frequency of late. I am at an end since I have never seen this mystery guest. Thanks in advance for any help.
Kev