Megabalanus tintinnabulum is a species of large barnacle in the family Balanidae forming clumps of barrel-shaped or narrowly conical shells up to 5 cm tall and 6.5 cm in diameter. It is the type species of the genus. The name comes from the Latin tintinnabulum meaning a handbell and refers to the fact that small groups of barnacles resemble clusters of miniature bells. Barnacles are distantly related to crabs and lobsters and in total there are over 1200 species. They were first studied by Charles Darwin and used in part to illustrate his theory of evolution. Large barnacles are cooked and eaten in many parts of the world.
It is a tropical barnacle native to West Africa and parts of the Indo-Pacific. It is found at or below the low-tide mark in the littoral zone and also fouling the hulls of ships and other submerged man-made structures. Ideal for situations where a mass of shells is required for instance in merchandising displays, events and aquariums providing natural caves for small cichlids and marine blennies.
Price is per clump and similar to those pictured. Shell Clump Size: Approx 13-16cm.
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.