Murex trunculus is a species of sea snail belonging to the family Muricidae, commonly known as rock snails. This marine gastropod is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It has a distinctive shell characterized by its spiny, elongated shape and can grow up to 10 centimeters in length. Historically, Murex trunculus is famous for producing a purple dye known as Tyrian purple, which was highly valued in ancient times. The dye is extracted from the snail's gland and was used to color textiles, particularly in the garments of royalty and nobility.