Title
Florida Horse Conch (Triplofusus giganteus)
FMM2011.20.028
Subject
seashells, gastropods, shell collectors
Description
Orange and cream striped gastropod shell. Several gray patches. Brown at bottom and on underside. Top of spiral white/gray.
The official state shell of Florida, the Horse Conch (Triplofusus giganteus), is the largest marine gastropod in North America and the second largest in the world. It can grow up to 24 inches in length and is a popular shell with collectors because of its size. The Horse Conch was used in a variety of ways by the Native Americans of south Florida, including the Calusa and Tequesta tribes. The columella, or central column, of the shell could be used as a woodworking tool or a fishing sinker. The body whorl could be used as a drinking cup.
The official state shell of Florida, the Horse Conch (Triplofusus giganteus), is the largest marine gastropod in North America and the second largest in the world. It can grow up to 24 inches in length and is a popular shell with collectors because of its size. The Horse Conch was used in a variety of ways by the Native Americans of south Florida, including the Calusa and Tequesta tribes. The columella, or central column, of the shell could be used as a woodworking tool or a fishing sinker. The body whorl could be used as a drinking cup.
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