Each of the six genera in this tropical family has its own very distinctive shape (and its own popular name). Despite a vaiety of differing features, all are closely related. Strombs have a flaring lip, spider conchs have long, fingerlike extensions, while tibias are spindle-shaped with a long siphonal canal. Many conch shells are colorful; most are thick and heavy. A long, curved operculum helps locomotion. A prominent feature, of strombs in particular, is the "stromboid notch" toward the front end of the outer lip, through which the animal protrudes its stalked left eye. They live mostly in shhallow water. Many are sand dwellers, some prefer mud or gravel , while orthers live on the reefs.