Oyster Sea ShellsFamily: Ostreidae. These edible oysters are the most commonly known throughout the world as a popular source of seafood. The shell is porcelaneous and the pearls produced from these edible oysters have little value. Oysters from this family group vary in size and shape. WINGED AND PEARLED OYSTER SHELLS Family: Pteriidae. This is a large family of tropical dwelling oysters with a smooth mother of pearl interior. They are usually found attached to rocks and wharfs. Some produce a gem quality pearl. THORNY OYSTER SHELLS Family: Spondylidae. Although they look like oysters, thorny oysters are actually more closely related to the scallop shell family. Also known as Chrysanthemum shells, these shells vary greatly in shape, color and spine. There are 2 dozen known species within this family group. Marine growth on the spines offer living thorny oysters camouflage protection from predators. JINGLE SHELLS Family: Anomiidae. This is a group of thin and semi-translucent shells that are found attached to rocks, wood and other shells. They are commonly found in shallow waters and mangroves. |