Sinistrofulgur sinistrum is an edible species of large predatory sea snail in the family Busyconidae, the busycon whelks.

[4] In contrast, in 2015 Petuch recognized four distinct species, including Sinistrofulgur sinistrum, distinguishing them by their range and shell morphology.

Major mound sites for Lightning Whelk shells in the United States can be found at Moundsville Alabama, Etowah Georgia, Spiro Oklahoma, and other areas.

The early periods, around 3000 BC, marked the use of lightning whelk shells as ceremonial objects in the Southeast regions, encompassing the Gulf of Mexico and the lower Atlantic Coast.

Although not directly involved in the making of the “black drink” consumed before battles or important events, lightning whelk shells were used to store the beverage when necessary.

Fire was revered as a representation of the sun on earth, and the circular direction of the marine shell symbolized the dances performed by the Native Americans.

Creek medicine men would start blessing or doctoring a house from the north and proceed in the counterclockwise direction around its perimeter.

Overall, the use of lightning whelk shells in both ritualistic and architectural contexts underscores their profound cultural importance to Native American communities during this early period, serving as tangible expressions of spiritual beliefs and societal customs.