Shellfish, including several species of marine molluscs of the family Buccinidae; gastropod worldwide distribution. Flesh of many species is tenderized by pounding prior to consumption. Commercially important species include Buccinum undatum (common whelks) and Neptunea antiqua (red whelks). Marketed fresh (in shell; cooked or uncooked), semi-preserved (in vinegar and salt) and canned.