the most popular seashells on florida's gulf coast

The Most Popular Seashellson the Gulf Coast of Florida

Baby’s EarAlmost flat with a large aperture, or opening, and a curve like a

human ear.

Banded TulipA spindle-shaped univalve with a long siphonal canal, elevated spire

and distinct sutures.

Clam ShellThe shells of bivalves commonly wash up on beaches often as

separate valves.

Coquina Clam ShellsBivalves known for their highly variable color patterns, found in the

swash zone of the beach.

Cowry ShellLook for a smooth, shiny exterior with varied color patterns.

Florida Fighting ConchA golden caramel-colored gastropod shell touched with white.

Lightning WhelkOff-white to tan or gray shell with narrow, brown "lightning"

streaks from the top of the shell to the bottom.

Lined Moon Snail ShellUsually round, smooth and broad with short spires.

Murex SeashellMost have spines or ribs and a lengthened canal on one end.

Oyster ShellCan be highly calcified, and many are somewhat irregular in shape.

Ribbed Cantharus ShellUp to 31 mm with pointed spire, aperture less than half shell length.

Scallop ShellFound in shallow seagrass beds in the coastal areas of Florida.

Scotch Bonnet ShellSo named because of its resemblance to the caps worn by Scottish

peasants.

Turret ShellsLook for convex whorls and spiral coils, with a circular aperture.

What’s your favorite?