Absolute rarity: Spondylus princeps & Murex symbiosis | 9.4 cm | Top condition Taxidermy wall mount - Spondylus & Murex - 9.4 cm - 0 mm - 0 mm - CITES Appendix II - Annex B in the EU - 1





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Specimen: Absolute rarity of a natural symbiosis between Spondylus princeps and Murex, 9.4 cm, in top condition; scientific name Spondylus & Murex; origin Mexico; year 1977; CITES Appendix II – EU Annex B.
Description from the seller
Detailed article description
Short description
For sale is an absolutely extraordinary, museum-grade specimen of a natural symbiosis / adhesion (epibiont) between a noble Pacific spiny oyster (Spondylus princeps) and a spindle snail (Murex / Hexaplex). With a size of 9.4 cm, it is a perfectly proportioned cabinet piece. The snail grew during its life inseparably and harmoniously directly on the shell. Such a sculptural, undamaged dual specimen is extremely rare on the market and represents the crown jewel for any discerning maritime collection.
Product details & highlights at a glance
Type / Symbiosis: Spondylus princeps (Pacific spiny oyster) as host with firmly grown Murex spiny snail.
Size: 9.4 cm (perfect display case size)
Condition: Top condition (excellently preserved delicate spines on both shell and snail)
Color: Characteristic intense orange-red/pink of the Spondylus paired with the distinctive natural tones of the Murex snail.
Special feature: Absolutely natural, unchanged composite piece – no artificial composition!
Origin: East Pacific (typically from the warm waters from Baja California (Mexico) south to Ecuador/Peru, finding depth usually in rocky reefs between 15–50 meters).
Cultural background: Spondylus princeps was regarded in pre-Columbian times as the holy "red gold of the Incas" and the Maya.
Use: High-end collectible (science/conchology), investment object, or exclusive design element for refined taste.
Condition description
The piece is in immaculate collector’s condition. Notably, the delicate, hollow spines of the shell as well as the filigree appendages of the grown snail are largely complete and unbroken. The shells have been professionally cleaned, removing calcareous overlays without attacking the natural texture or the vibrant pigmentation.
SKU Oberdiek Spondylus princeps 51
TAGS: Nautilus, Sea Shell, Nautic, Maritime, Nautical Shells, Snails, Collectible, Rare
Seller's Story
Detailed article description
Short description
For sale is an absolutely extraordinary, museum-grade specimen of a natural symbiosis / adhesion (epibiont) between a noble Pacific spiny oyster (Spondylus princeps) and a spindle snail (Murex / Hexaplex). With a size of 9.4 cm, it is a perfectly proportioned cabinet piece. The snail grew during its life inseparably and harmoniously directly on the shell. Such a sculptural, undamaged dual specimen is extremely rare on the market and represents the crown jewel for any discerning maritime collection.
Product details & highlights at a glance
Type / Symbiosis: Spondylus princeps (Pacific spiny oyster) as host with firmly grown Murex spiny snail.
Size: 9.4 cm (perfect display case size)
Condition: Top condition (excellently preserved delicate spines on both shell and snail)
Color: Characteristic intense orange-red/pink of the Spondylus paired with the distinctive natural tones of the Murex snail.
Special feature: Absolutely natural, unchanged composite piece – no artificial composition!
Origin: East Pacific (typically from the warm waters from Baja California (Mexico) south to Ecuador/Peru, finding depth usually in rocky reefs between 15–50 meters).
Cultural background: Spondylus princeps was regarded in pre-Columbian times as the holy "red gold of the Incas" and the Maya.
Use: High-end collectible (science/conchology), investment object, or exclusive design element for refined taste.
Condition description
The piece is in immaculate collector’s condition. Notably, the delicate, hollow spines of the shell as well as the filigree appendages of the grown snail are largely complete and unbroken. The shells have been professionally cleaned, removing calcareous overlays without attacking the natural texture or the vibrant pigmentation.
SKU Oberdiek Spondylus princeps 51
TAGS: Nautilus, Sea Shell, Nautic, Maritime, Nautical Shells, Snails, Collectible, Rare
Seller's Story
Details
Disclaimer
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.

