A splendid pair of syrinxes for collection

The Syrinx aruanus is commonly known as the "Australian Trumpet" because in the past it was emptied and used by Indigenous populations as a wind instrument (trumpet). It is the largest living gastropod (sea snail) in the world. The largest specimens can reach up to 90 cm in length and a weight of about 20 kg. The inside of the "mouth" is described as shiny and smooth, with hues ranging from apricot to cream-pink. It lives on sandy bottoms of subtidal zones (between 5 and 30 meters depth) in the western Indo-Pacific, particularly around northern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. Despite its impressive size, it is a skilled predator. It feeds mainly on large polychaete worms. The lot presents two syrinxes: one has undergone a periostracum cleaning process, the "tuft" or fibrous brownish-black or grayish membrane that protects the calcium carbonate shell from erosion and parasitic organisms. It is usually removed to expose the underlying shell, which ranges in color from cream-white to pale orange. The second syrinx is instead equipped with periosteum and operculum. Truly substantial dimensions. Two collectible pieces. Base not included, made from reclaimed material and used solely for photographic purposes. A necessary clarification. The final image of our photographic gallery is obtained with the help of AI software. The purpose is purely aesthetic but also demonstrative: it shows the real object inside an artificially generated setting. The aim is to show how precious the items up for auction are and how well they fit in different, all highly refined environments. Thank you for your attention. Happy bidding.

Estimate:$420.64

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