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Carrier Shell
£12.95
Description
The Carrier Shell or Xenophoridae, are quite unique and unusual in that they scurry along attaching shells, debris, rock, pebbles and even bits of corals to themselves.
There are many explanations for their shell-cementing abilities and camouflage against predators is probably top of the list.
attachments may simply be providing a broader base to stop the shell from sinking into its own muddy habitat. It may also add rigidity and strength to the shell and make them less likely to tip over exposing their vulnerable underside to predators.
The shell starts growing at the top or apex and then begins attaching small items. The carrier shell starts by twisting and turning each piece until it’s in exactly the right position, a process which can take several hours. With each new growth spurt additional new layers of decoration are cemented into to place.
The name Xenophora comes from two ancient Greek words and means bearing or carrying foreigners.
As with all of our shells they are a natural source of food and come from a sustainable resource.
As a natural product there will be variations from the images supplied and each shell will have acquired certain marks and imperfections during its lifetime and these should be considered perfectly normal and very much part of the individual charm and character of these rather special shells.
Common to South African, Indian and Western Pacific waters.
Size: approx 9-10 cm across
There are many explanations for their shell-cementing abilities and camouflage against predators is probably top of the list.
attachments may simply be providing a broader base to stop the shell from sinking into its own muddy habitat. It may also add rigidity and strength to the shell and make them less likely to tip over exposing their vulnerable underside to predators.
The shell starts growing at the top or apex and then begins attaching small items. The carrier shell starts by twisting and turning each piece until it’s in exactly the right position, a process which can take several hours. With each new growth spurt additional new layers of decoration are cemented into to place.
The name Xenophora comes from two ancient Greek words and means bearing or carrying foreigners.
As with all of our shells they are a natural source of food and come from a sustainable resource.
As a natural product there will be variations from the images supplied and each shell will have acquired certain marks and imperfections during its lifetime and these should be considered perfectly normal and very much part of the individual charm and character of these rather special shells.
Common to South African, Indian and Western Pacific waters.
Size: approx 9-10 cm across
More Details
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Weight:0.2kg