Nature’s masterpiece of the ocean: striking Mauritia...

Expand your malacological collection with an impressive showpiece. For sale is the shell of a dog rose cowry (Mauritia eglantina). At a considerable length of 69 mm, this specimen clearly exceeds the typical size average of its species. The shell is striking for its characteristic elongated silhouette, the dense brown longitudinal lines on the dorsum, and the lighter band in the center. The shell is in an excellent collector’s condition (F+++), and displays the beautiful, naturally high-gloss enamel finish. Biological Details & Life Habit: The species in detail: Mauritia eglantina is often visually confused with the closely related Mauritia arabica. The most important distinguishing features are the more cylindrical body form and a distinctive dark spot at the apex of the shell (Spira). Habitat & Behavior: These snails are nocturnal inhabitants of shallow waters. They prefer protected coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky substrates at depths of 2 to 15 meters. During the day they hide deep in crevices or under heavy coral plates. They feed as herbivores on marine epibiota. The typical gloss arises because the living animal fully envelops its shell with its mantle, thereby protecting it from abrasion. Origin: This superb specimen comes from the warm, saline waters of the Indo-Pacific (range extends from Southeast Asia, through the Philippines and Indonesia, to northern Australia) Shipping as insured parcel via DHL Sale and shipping only within the EU SKU divers/ohne - Mauritia eglantina

Estimate:$168.25

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