Clearing the Taxonomic Mist: New insights into Neogene Conidae diversity through UV imaging of type specimens

Fossils of the family Conidae (predatory marine gastropods) present persistent taxonomic challenges due to limited morphological variability between species and the often-overlooked potential of shell colour patterns. Consequently, certain historical classifications from the 19th century, many of which remain in use today, include ambiguous or potentially redundant taxa. During a short-term scientific mission to the Museo Regionale di Scienze Naturali di Torino (Italy), I studied over 180 Neogene Conidae specimens, including the 35 type specimens originally described by Federico Sacco, which are hosted in the museum. Sacco’s many named varieties, known for their taxonomic uncertainty, were also partially assessed. Ultraviolet (UV) light imaging was used to reveal residual shell colour patterns that are not visible under natural light. Preliminary results display that some species or varieties likely represent multiple distinct taxa, while some varieties are distinct species. For example, Conus (Kalloconus) berghausi (Michelotti, 1847), including the neotype and Sacco’s varieties, appears to encompass at least three separate species. UV imaging proved particularly useful in detecting consistent colour pattern elements that support species delimitation. This initial assessment illustrates the potential of combining UV imaging with classical morphological approaches to refine the taxonomy of Neogene Conidae. Further detailed study of Sacco’s broader collection may yield additional taxonomic insights and contribute to a more stable framework for interpreting fossil cone snail diversity.