Common Name:
Whelk
Scientific Name:
Hexaplex trunculus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Reproduction Period:
Spring to Summer
Harvesting Areas:
Portuguese Atlantic coast — rocky and mixed seabeds, often near algae and areas with strong water circulation, at depths of up to approximately 50 metres.
Packaging:
Live seafood transport boxes — 1 kg, 2 kg or 5 kg
Sizes:
Small
Medium
Large
The Hexaplex trunculus whelk is a marine gastropod with a robust, spiral-shaped shell adorned with pronounced spines and ridges, giving it a distinctive and rugged appearance. Shell colouration ranges from dark brown and cream to yellowish tones, often with mottled or irregular patterns that reflect the seabed environment in which it lives. The shell opening is protected by a strong operculum, allowing the animal to fully seal itself when disturbed.
It inhabits rocky or mixed substrates, partially burying itself or attaching to hard surfaces. Its diet consists mainly of molluscs and other small invertebrates, as well as organic matter present in the water. The meat is firm, flavoursome and intensely marine, with subtle sweet notes that make it highly valued in gastronomy.
Marketed live, it guarantees maximum freshness and is ideal for boiling, grilling or incorporating into both traditional and gourmet dishes, where its natural flavour remains pure and distinctive.
