Cypraeidae
I’m totally shell-shocked!
A family of around 400 living species and subspecies inhabiting warm waters around the globe with the largest species diversity in the tropical region of the indo-pacific. Cowrie shells have a long relationship with humans having been used as money and adorning many native masks, ornaments and costumes. Often viewed as a fertility symbol.
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About Cypraeidae
Cowrie shells are the most popular family with seashell collectors due their high glossy smooth surface and the diversity of size, colours and patterns. Size ranges from 5mm to 190mm, the Atlantic deer cowrie, Cypraea Macrocypraea cervus being the largest of the extant species.
South Africa has many endemic species especially the endemic Cypraeovula that are most common off the South West, South and South East Coasts. South Africa is also home to the iconic Fulton’s cross cowrie, Cypraea Barycypraea fultoni, and the highly desirable large Broderipi’s Cowrie, Cypraea Callistocypraea broderipii, both sell for many thousands of pounds.