Melo broderipii – Young Specimen – Philippines Juvenile Melo broderipii - Height: 73 mm - Width: 40 mm- 19 g - (1)

Interesting young specimen of Melo broderipii, a large marine gastropod belonging to the family Volutidae, from the Philippines. The shell features an elongated ovoid shape, with a surface naturally smooth and glossy. The background coloration ranges from cream to ivory and pale yellow, traversed by dark brown markings arranged in broken lines, bands, angular segments and irregular patterns. The distribution of the design naturally varies from specimen to specimen, making each shell unique and recognizable. One of the most interesting aspects is its juvenile stage. The spire is still relatively evident, while along the shoulder there are already the characteristic projections that, with growth, can develop further, significantly modifying the shell profile. The opening is wide and elongated, a typical feature of the Melo genus, with interior uniform in delicate cream and beige tones. Juvenile Melo broderipii specimens are particularly appreciated in malacological collecting because they allow observation of a precise developmental stage of the species. During growth, in fact, the shell not only increases in size, but gradually changes proportions, thickness, shoulder conformation and the relationship between dorsum and aperture. The Volutidae family includes some of the most elegant and sought-after shells by collectors, characterized by smooth surfaces, broad openings and extremely variable natural patterns. Juvenile specimens also constitute an interesting complement to adult shells, especially in collections dedicated to growth series, malacology and the history of natural science. The Philippines represent one of the world’s most important areas for marine biodiversity and are historically associated with the study and collection of numerous tropical gastropod species. An interesting specimen for a collection dedicated to Volutidae, tropical shells, marine gastropods, malacology and natural history objects. Species: Melo broderipii Author: Gray in Griffith & Pidgeon, 1833 Family: Volutidae Provenance: Philippines Stage: juvenile natural specimen