Leopard cone shells, from Indo-pacific waters. Many of the shells are prized for their striped and speckled markings - the Leopard Cone being an especially popular shell with amateur collectors.
A popular shell for interior / bathroom decoration.
The Conidae family of shells comprises at least 300 species, and are successful predators feeding on small fish and other molluscs. The creature living within the cone shell is able to immobilise its prey with a harpoon-like tooth which can be extended beyond the length of the shell. The venom can be very painful and has been known to be fatal to humans on rare occasions.
Price is per shell and vary between approximately 6.5 to 7.5cm in length.
It is a natural product so may have nicks, chips and scratches.
Environmental Note:
With our increasingly sophisticated lifestyles aided by modern technology we are forging an ever growing demand on our fragile world's natural resources. Alongside our desire to learn about and collect natural objects, it is essential not to lose sight of our mandate to manage and care for all our natural wonders - seashells are by no means the least of them.
The biggest threat to seashells is the destruction of habitat, with pollution being the number one killer. We dump vast quantities of sewage, rubbish and industrial waste into our oceans. Tough controls are required if we are to sustain our natural marine resources for future generations.
In recent years a convention on international endangered species (CITES) was formed. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants (Including marine life) does not threaten their survival.
Our suppliers take pride in recycling over 99% of their shell products from audited, sustainable fishing activities. It is their mandate to only work with responsible sources and through understanding and knowledge bring shells to today's generation without endangering species for generations to come.