1.9K views · 382 reactions | Ever wondered how shells get their colors and patterns? Watch as Dr. José Leal explains! #sanibel #sanibelisland #shellmuseum #shells #shelling #malacology | Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium | Facebook

I love this ! Our most abundant shell on the islands the Florida Fighting conch. They are thick-shelled with blunt knobbed whorls .Colors vary from pale yellow to chestnut brown with occasional light spots and zigzags.The body whorl has fine spiral cords. They live in sandy shallows, including the swash zone of low energy beaches .They can quickly flip themselves and walk using their pointed operculum. These cuties feed on algae and detritus. They make the perfect gifts for family and friends. T

The giant cockle sea shell commonly found along Southwest Florida beaches but normally not alive like this one. The shell can reach up to 4-5 inches across. The shell is Heart-shaped/ovate, with 30-40 rounded radial ribs on each valve.  The shell is a creamy white/tan exterior with reddish-brown mottling…the interior is often pinkish. They live in shallow sandy substrates in the Gulf of Mexico. Found along SWFL shores. Like other cockles, it uses a muscular “foot” to burrow and to leap away f