M-851 CROWN CONCH, Melongena corona

It is a particularly hardy and attractive gastropod that is found around oyster reefs and mud flats in West Florida. Its handsome, pointed spiral shell is used extensively in shell craft. Tolerant of low salinities, Melongena is excellent for feeding demonstrations: food is placed in a test tube and the gastropod extends its long, snakelike proboscis down to get it. Occasionally it feeds on live oysters. Size: 6-10 cm.