Sea Snail Sea shell - S-01 MELO UMBILICATUS

Beautiful, very large XXL Melo umbilicatus shell, commonly known as the heavy belownica or navel melon, is a very large sea snail, a mollusk of the family Volutidae, wolut. The Melo umbilicatus shell is among the most splendid and striking. It is valued by both collectors and as an ornamental element. Large, massive, ovate-oblong, with a clearly rounded ventral side. The aperture is very wide, spanning almost the entire length of the shell. A distinctive feature is a well-developed, deep umbilicus, from which the species gets its name. Surface is smooth, shiny, without pronounced ribs or spines. Delicate, regular growth lines are only faintly visible. Coloration: background color in light brown, cream, or beige, often with darker, irregular streaks and wavy bands. The interior of the aperture is usually lighter—white, cream, or slightly orange. Outer lip: thin, smooth, unarmed with teeth, slightly turned outward. Distinguishing feature: deep, wide umbilicus on the underside of the shell, clearly visible even in adults. The Melo umbilicatus shell occurs in the Indo-Pacific waters, most often on sandy nearshore bottoms. Because of its impressive size and decorative appearance, it is often collected and, in some regions, used in artistic crafts as well. Dimensions – 120/190/280 mm. I highly recommend it to collectors and interior decorators.