sedimentary
Spider Conch Shell
Lambis lambis (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy white with brown/orange mottling; Luster: Pearly to porcelain-like; Structure: Spiral with long finger-like projections (digitations)
- Hardness
- 3 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Creamy white with brown/orange mottling
- Luster
- Pearly to porcelain-like
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy white with brown/orange mottling; Luster: Pearly to porcelain-like; Structure: Spiral with long finger-like projections (digitations)
Formation & geological history
Recent biological origin; formed by marine gastropods secreting calcium carbonate (aragonite) in shallow tropical coral reef environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, shell collecting, and occasionally as a source of food in some cultures.
Geological facts
Unlike many other conchs, the spider conch uses its long extensions for stability and to prevent it from flipping over in turbulent waters.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive 6-7 finger-like spines. Commonly found in the Indo-West Pacific region in shallow sandy or reef areas.
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