Conch Shells

Family: Strombidae. The conch is the common name applied to many species of mollusks, which are members of the Strombidae family. The shell is not considered fully developed until the flaring lip appears. It uses this lip to dig into the sea bottom. Conchs push themselves in short, sudden spurts using their strong, horny, curved, operculum. Most conchs live in colonies and are found in sand and grassy areas. They are sometimes called the sea cows of the shell world because they are herbivores, grazing on the algae and sea grass.

Learn more about Conch Shells in our seashell article gallery.