A single-shelled gastropod that crawls over rocks feeding on algae. It remains attached by a powerful green foot and shows a mantle of green. The curved line of round holes (known as the selenizone) are very distinctive and white parts of the mantle sometimes protrude from largest of these.
Both the common name and the scientific name are based on the shape of the shell, which is long, narrow and curved, resembling the shape of a donkey's ear. The brown, rough top fails in comparison to the striking mother of pearl interior and are great for craft projects, both interior and exterior! The shells look stunning as table decoration at weddings and anniversaries where their delicate form makes them almost confetti like.
This is an Indo-West Pacific species (Eastern Indian Ocean to the Central Pacific) where it is regularly collected for food especially in South East Asian countries.
Price is per 100g pack. Approximately 12 to 25 shells per pack depending on the shell size.
Shell Sizes vary between 2 to 8cm long and are scooped randomly.
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.